BENZOIC ACID
Prepared at the 49th JECFA (1996), published in FNP 52 Add 4 (1996) superseding specifications prepared at the 17th JECFA (1973), published in
FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 63rd JECFA (2004). A group ADI of 0-5 mg/kg bw for benzoic
acid and its salts was established at the 27th JECFA (1983) was maintained at the 46th JECFA (1996)
SYNONYMS INS No. 210
DEFINITION
Chemical names Benzoic acid, benzenecarboxylic acid, phenylcarboxylic acid
C.A.S. number 65-85-0
Chemical formula C7H6O2
Formula weight 122.12
Assay Not less than 99.5% on the dried basis
DESCRIPTION White crystalline solid, usually in the form of scales or needles, having not more than a faint characteristic odour
FUNCTIONAL USES Antimicrobial preservative
