Potassium benzoate

Potassium benzoate (CAS 582-25-2), also known as E212, is the potassium salt form of benzoic acid used as a broad-spectrum preservative across food, beverage, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.

It inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, extending shelf life in acidic formulations where microbial control is critical. In food and beverage manufacturing, it is used to preserve acidic products.

Common applications include carbonated drinks, fruit juices, condiments, and pickled goods, where it is preferred over sodium benzoate for its lower sodium contribution to the final product formulation.

Cosmetic formulators incorporate it into rinse-off and leave-on products, including shampoos, lotions, and wipes, as a preservative active often in combination with other antimicrobials for efficacy.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a preservative in oral liquid formulations and topical preparations where pH conditions support its antimicrobial activity. It also functions as a buffering agent.

This material is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules. Standard grades include food-grade (FCC), pharmaceutical-grade (USP/BP), and technical-grade for industrial applications.

Packaging typically ranges from 25 kg bags to bulk quantities depending on grade and application requirements. It provides reliable stability and performance in formulations requiring mild pH stabilization.