POTASSIUM BENZOATE
Prepared at the 46th JECFA (1996), published in FNP 52 Add 4 (1996) superseding specifications prepared at the 17th JECFA (1974), published in FNP 4 (1978). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 63rd JECFA (2004). A group ADI of 0-5 mg/kg bw for benzoic acid and salts was established at the 27th JECFA (1983) and maintained at the 46th JECFA (1996).
SYNONYMS INS No. 212
DEFINITION
Chemical names Potassium benzoate, potassium salt of benzenecarboxylic acid, potassium salt of phenylcarboxylic acid
C.A.S. number 582-25-2 (anhydrous)
Chemical formula C7H5KO2 · 3H2O
Formula weight 160.22 (anhydrous) 214.27 (trihydrate)
Assay Not less than 99.0% on the dried basis
DESCRIPTION White crystalline powder
FUNCTIONAL USES Antimicrobial preservative
