Benzoic Acid Uses
Food and Beverage: Widely used as a preservative (often in the form of sodium benzoate) to extend the shelf life of acidic foods and drinks like fruit juices, soft drinks, pickles, and salad dressings.
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Functions as a preservative and fragrance ingredient in lipsticks, cleansers, and creams to prevent microbial contamination and maintain product integrity.
Medical and Pharmaceutical: Its antifungal properties make it a key component in topical ointments and creams used to treat skin conditions like athlete's foot, ringworm, and eczema.
Industrial Manufacturing: Serves as a crucial chemical precursor in the production of phenol, benzoyl chloride, and plasticizers. It is also used to formulate dyes, insect repellents, and alkyd resins
