Potassium benzoate

Potassium benzoate (E212, CAS 582-25-2) is the potassium salt of benzoic acid, available under designations including POTASSIUMBENZOATE NF and POTASSIUMBENZOATE FCC. It functions as a preservative, antioxidant, and pH buffer across food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.

In food and beverage production, E212 inhibits yeast, mould, and bacterial growth by disrupting microbial cell membranes at acidic pH, making it effective in carbonated drinks, condiments, and fruit-based products. In personal care formulations, it serves as an antimicrobial preservative and pH buffer, often replacing sodium benzoate where lower sodium content is required.

Potassium benzoate is supplied in FCC and NF grades, meeting Food Chemicals Codex and National Formulary standards respectively. It is compliant with EU REACH regulations and carries E212 status under European food law. Procurement teams should confirm packaging format and lot documentation with the supplier prior to order.