4-hydroxybenzoic acid

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid (CAS 99-96-7), also known as p-salicylic acid and abbreviated as 4-HBA, is the primary precursor in the synthesis of paraben preservatives used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. It functions as an antimicrobial agent and antioxidant stabilizer in its own right, and as a key intermediate for producing methyl, ethyl, propyl, and butyl paraben esters for various industrial applications.

In cosmetics and personal care, 4-HBA is used directly as a preservative and UV stabilizer in creams, lotions, and sunscreen formulations. Pharmaceutical manufacturers rely on it as a synthetic building block. It is used for paraben-based excipients and as a preservative in topical and oral dosage forms. Food processors source it under FEMA 3986 for flavoring and preservation applications in packaged goods.

It also appears in industrial formulations where oxidative stability is required, such as adhesives and polymer systems. 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder for easy handling. Standard grades include technical, food-grade, and pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. specifications. This ensures high purity and compliance for sensitive manufacturing processes.

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