12-3+The+Issues+of+Benzoic+Acid

Home Next

The Issues of Benzoic Acid Benzoic acid, C7H6O2 (or C6H5COOH), is a colorless crystalline solid and the simplest aromatic carboxylic acid. The name derived from gum benzoin, which was for a long time the only source for benzoic acid. This weak acid and its salts are used as a food preservative. Benzoic acid is an important precursor for the synthesis of many other organic substances. Food additive such as benzoic acid is often used in sauces and chili. Benzoic acid is also called antimicrobial compounds for the intended use of these preservatives in the food is to prevent the growth of yeasts and bacteria, especially for foods that have been opened from its packaging. The maximum amount of benzoic acid which may be used is 1000 ppm or 1 gram per kg of material (Permenkes No 722/Menkes/per/1X/1988). Restricted the use of benzoic acid is intended to prevent poisoning. Excessive consumption of benzoic acid in a foodstuff is not recommended because the amount of preservatives that enters the body will increase with more and more and frequency of consumption. Moreover, if coupled with other preserved foods containing benzoic acid. Benzoic acid has the ADI of 5 mg per kg body weight (Hanssen, 1989 in News Consumers, 1997). Benzoic acid based on research evidence shows has a very low toksinitas to humans and animals. In humans, the toxic dose is 6 mg / kg body weight by injection through the skin but oral intake of 5 to 10 mg / day for several days do not have a negative effect on health.