Where Is the Benzoic Acid?

Benzoic acid (E210 or INS210, Table 2), a colorless aromatic carboxylic acid (Fig. 1), is naturally present in plant (fruits, nuts, spices and vegetable), fungal and animal tissues, but it can also be produced by microorganisms during food processing and/or be added as a food additive.

Is benzoic acid found in nature?

Benzoic acid (C₇H₆O₂) is the simplest aromatic carboxylic acid, with a carboxylic group directly bonded to the benzene ring. It is naturally present in plant and animal tissues, and can also be generated in fermented products through microbial metabolism.

What Contains benzoic acid?

As a preservative, you will find benzoic acid in beer, chewing gums, sweets, ice cream, jams, jellies, maraschino cherries and margarine. You will also find benzoic acid used in processed foods such as cheeses and meats.