Q. Explain the use of Benzoates acid?
Benzoic acid, sodium benzoate and the parahydroxy esters (parabens) are used as preservatives. Benzoic acid and its sodium salt, sodium benzoate, is the widely used preservative when compared to other preservatives. Sodium benzoate is more soluble in water, as such, it is the preferred form. The antimicrobial activity of benzoate is greater at the lower pH values. Its optimum pH range is between 2.5 to 4.0. Only the undissociated benzoic acid molecules are active. Due to this, the benzoic acid and its salts are effective in high acid food products.