Is Benzoic Acid vegetarian?

Benzoic acid is an aromatic carboxylic acid that occurs naturally in small amounts in some plants (e.g. cranberries, prunes) but is produced commercially via catalytic oxidation of toluene with air in the presence of a heavy metal catalyst. It is widely used as a preservative in food (E210), cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Its commercial form is synthetic.

An ingredient is considered vegetarian if it avoids components derived from killing an animal.

Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.