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Benzoic acid

Benzoic acid suppliers and sourcing guide

Benzoic acid is the simplest aromatic carboxylic acid and occurs naturally in foods such as cranberries, prunes, cinnamon and cloves. Commercial benzoic acid is made mainly by air oxidation of toluene with a metal catalyst, then purified by distillation or crystallization. It dissolves poorly in water, so most food and drink makers use sodium or potassium benzoate; the acid itself is used in some fats, sauces and personal care and pharmaceutical products.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
benzenecarboxylic acid · E210 · carboxybenzene
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of benzoic acid

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Flakes

    Solid flakes, a common form for industrial and food grades.

  • Powder

    Fine powder for dry blends.

  • Granular

    Lower-dust granules.

  • USP grade

    Benzoic acid made to USP specifications for pharmaceutical and personal care use.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Assay (titration)
Benzoic acid content by titration with sodium hydroxide, against FCC or USP limits.
Melting range
Melting range, a quick identity and purity check.
Residue on ignition
Inorganic residue.
Readily oxidizable or carbonizable substances
Limit tests for organic impurities from manufacture.
Lead and heavy metals
Lead and other metals by ICP-MS.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Benzoic acid is stable when kept in closed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area. The dust can irritate eyes and airways and fine dust can be combustible, so handle with dust control. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

Lots and expiry dates

Record form and grade (food or USP) for each lot and confirm the COA matches the grade ordered. Rotate FEFO.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Benzoic acid suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking benzoic acid suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of benzoic acid can brands buy?

Common forms include flakes, powder, granular and uSP grade. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for benzoic acid include?

Expect assay (titration), melting range, residue on ignition, readily oxidizable or carbonizable substances and lead and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should benzoic acid be stored?

Benzoic acid is stable when kept in closed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area. The dust can irritate eyes and airways and fine dust can be combustible, so handle with dust control. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

What is the regulatory status of benzoic acid?

21 CFR 184.1021 affirms benzoic acid as GRAS for use as an antimicrobial agent and flavoring agent, and notes that current usage results in a maximum level of 0.1 percent in food. Health Canada's List of Permitted Preservatives includes benzoic acid.

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