Vanillic acid
CAS 121-34-6
EC 204-466-8
Formula C8H8O4
MW 168.15 g/mol
Organic Acids Food & NutritionPersonal Care & CosmeticsPharmaceuticals & Healthcare UV Protection & StabilizationPreservation & BiocideAntioxidant & Stabilizer
Description
Vanillic acid (CAS 121-34-6, EC 204-466-8) is a phenolic acid derived from vanillin oxidation, occurring naturally in various plant sources. It is catalogued under FEMA 3988 and NSC 3987, and carries no assigned E-code under EU food additive regulations.
In food and beverage formulations, vanillic acid functions as an antioxidant by donating hydrogen atoms to neutralise free radicals, extending shelf life in lipid-containing systems. In cosmetic and personal care products, it acts as a UV absorber and skin conditioner, helping to stabilise formulations against photo-oxidative degradation while supporting barrier function.
Vanillic acid is available in pharmaceutical and food-grade forms, with compliance applicable under REACH registration requirements for EU supply. It is typically supplied as a crystalline powder in quantities ranging from laboratory to bulk scale. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against Ph.Eur. or FCC specifications depending on the intended application.
In food and beverage formulations, vanillic acid functions as an antioxidant by donating hydrogen atoms to neutralise free radicals, extending shelf life in lipid-containing systems. In cosmetic and personal care products, it acts as a UV absorber and skin conditioner, helping to stabilise formulations against photo-oxidative degradation while supporting barrier function.
Vanillic acid is available in pharmaceutical and food-grade forms, with compliance applicable under REACH registration requirements for EU supply. It is typically supplied as a crystalline powder in quantities ranging from laboratory to bulk scale. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against Ph.Eur. or FCC specifications depending on the intended application.
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)
Warning GHS07
H
H315H319H335
P
P261P264P271P280P319P321P405P501P264+P265P302+P352P304+P340P332+P317P337+P317P362+P364P403+P233P305+P351+P338
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29189090 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzoic acidVanillatep-VanillateVENILLIC ACIDTIMTEC-BB SBB008280
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Raw Materials
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