Benzoic acid is extensively used in the preservation of food products for maintaining
quality and extending shelf life by inhibiting mould and bacteria growth.
Some previous studies have demonstrated that consumption of excessive amounts of
benzoi
c acid could be a health hazard.
The aim of this study was to detect the presence of benzoic acid and its salts in
some commercial children food like potatochips that labeled "Free of Preservatives" .
Twenty seven samples of potatochips purchased from three different local products
were analyzed for the presence of benzoic acid.
The results revealed the presence of benzoic acid in nine samples and its
concentration was between 100.34-188.65mg/kg.
We have concluded also that TLC is a very convenient method for the
detection of benzoic acid in food products .
