Phenoxy ethanol is a synthetic organic compound with a wide range of applications. The food-grade variant is specifically produced to meet strict purity and safety standards for use in food processing and preservation. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a faint aromatic odor.
Key Points
- Chemical Composition: Phenoxy ethanol is a phenyl ether alcohol, chemically known as 2-phenoxyethanol.
- Antimicrobial Properties: It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and yeasts.
- Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohol, and many organic solvents.
- Odor and Taste: Possesses a mild, slightly floral odor and a bitter taste.
- Safety: Considered safe for use in food products when used according to good manufacturing practices (GMP).
- Food Applications: Primarily used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in food and beverage products.
- Efficacy: Effective at low concentrations, providing long-lasting protection against microbial spoilage.
- Stability: Stable under various processing conditions, including heat, light, and pH variations.
- Regulatory Approval: Approved for use in food products by many regulatory authorities worldwide.
- Synergistic Effects: Often used in combination with other preservatives to enhance antimicrobial efficacy.
Usage Recommendations
- Concentration: Use at recommended concentrations to ensure effectiveness and safety.
- Application: Apply phenoxy ethanol during food processing, such as during mixing or filling.
- Product Types: Suitable for a wide range of food products, including beverages, dairy products, and processed meats.
- Combination: Consider combining with other preservatives for broader spectrum protection.
- Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): Adhere to GMP guidelines for handling and use.
- Labeling: Clearly label products containing phenoxy ethanol.
Cautions
- Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions.
- Skin and Eye Contact: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs.
- Inhalation: Avoid prolonged or repeated inhalation of vapors.
- Ingestion: Accidental ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset. Seek medical attention if ingested.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances.
Food grade phenoxy ethanol is a synthetic compound primarily used as a preservative in the food industry due to its antimicrobial properties. Here are its key features:
- Chemical Structure: It is a phenyl ether alcohol with the chemical formula C8H10O2.
- Physical Properties: Colorless, oily liquid with a faint aromatic odor.
- Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, and many organic solvents.
- Antimicrobial Activity: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial action against bacteria, fungi, and yeasts.
- Preservative Efficacy: Effective at low concentrations, providing long-lasting microbial protection.
- Odor and Taste: Mild, slightly floral odor and a bitter taste, but generally considered acceptable in food products.
- Stability: Stable under various processing conditions, including heat, light, and pH variations.
- Safety: Considered safe for use in food products when used according to good manufacturing practices (GMP).
- Regulatory Approval: Approved for food use by many regulatory authorities worldwide.
- Synergistic Effects: Often used in combination with other preservatives to enhance antimicrobial efficacy.
- Low Toxicity: Generally considered to have low toxicity when used as directed.
- Environmental Impact: Biodegradable and considered to have a low environmental impact.
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