Potassium Benzoate

Brief Overview

Potassium Benzoate (E212), the potassium salt of benzoic acid, is a food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria. It works best in low-pH products, below 4.5, where it exists as benzoic acid. Acidic foods and beverages such as fruit juice (citric acid), sparkling drinks (carbonic acid), soft drinks (phosphoric acid), and pickles (vinegar) may be preserved with potassium benzoate. It is approved for use in most countries including Canada, the U.S., and the EU, where it is designated by the E number E212. In the EU, it is not recommended for consumption by children.

Manufacturing Process

Substantially pure potassium benzoate is obtained in high yield by reacting an aromatic hydrocarbon solution of benzoic acid such as that obtained from a toluene oxidation process with potassium hydroxide preferably in concentrated aqueous solution, thereby precipitating solid potassium benzoate.

Food Industry

Potassium Benzoate is an acidic food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast and some bacteria. It is used in foods such as in low-sugar jams, marmalades, jellies, fruit juices, carbonated drinks, pickles. It is also used as a preservative in beverage such as in soft drinks and sodas.

Cosmetic Industry

Potassium Benzoate is used in a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products, such as bath products, soaps and detergents, baby products, eye makeup, blushers, cleansing products, make up products and skin care products.