Vanillic acid
Description
Vanillic acid (CAS 121-34-6), also identified by its FEMA number 3988, is a naturally derived phenolic acid used across pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic manufacturing.
Commercially recognized as vanillate in salt form, it functions as an antioxidant, preservative, and UV-stabilizing agent in finished formulations. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it serves as an intermediate.
It contributes antioxidant stabilization to drug formulations sensitive to oxidative degradation. Food and beverage producers incorporate it as a flavoring adjunct and oxidation inhibitor in various products.
Phenolic antioxidants are often preferred over synthetic alternatives in these applications. Cosmetic and personal care formulators use it in skin-care products for its combined antioxidant and UV-stabilizing properties.
It is particularly effective in formulations targeting photoprotection. It also functions as a preservative booster in multi-ingredient systems, extending shelf life without requiring high active concentrations.
Vanillic acid is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Standard commercial grades include food-grade material meeting FEMA 3988 specifications and pharmaceutical-grade material.
These grades are aligned with USP or technical-grade standards depending on end-use requirements. Packaging is available in kilogram quantities through bulk metric-ton volumes for industrial needs.
This ensures the product suits both development-scale and industrial procurement needs. Our supply chain ensures consistent quality and availability for global manufacturing partners across all sectors.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 211.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 257.07°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.44 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Appearance | white odourless crystals or powder |
| Color | Clear colorless to brown, may darken during storage |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. dairy milky custard creamy powdery vanilla bean |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water, alcohol and ether. |
| Refractive Index | 1.5090 (estimate) |
| Log P | 1.30 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29189090 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
Protocatechuic acid, 3-methyl ether|Vanillate|p-Vanillic acid|p-Vanillate|m-Anisic acid, 4-hydroxy-|Benzoic acid, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-|Acide vanillique|4-Hydroxy-m-Anisic acid
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