News Details

On 10 March 2026, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), through its Technical Committee on Organic Chemicals, Alcohols and Allied Products (PCD 9), issued a wide circulation draft for the revision of the standard titled “Benzoic Acid, Technical — Specification (Second Revision)”. The draft document (PCD 9 (33928) WC) has been circulated to stakeholders for review and feedback, with comments invited until 9 May 2026. 

Scope and key Provision 

Benzoic acid (CAS No 65-85-0) is widely used as a food preservative and in the production of benzoates, dyes, and benzoyl compounds. It is also used in calico printing, tobacco curing, and analytical applications. Additionally, it is used as an antifungal agent in medicines, and in products such as flavours, perfumes, dentifrices, plasticizers, and alkyd resins. 

This standard specifies the requirements, sampling methods, and tests for technical-grade benzoic acid. 

Quality Requirements and Testing Criteria 

According to the draft, benzoic acid should appear as a slightly yellowish to pinkish crystalline powder and must meet specified solubility criteria. The standard also mandates compliance with prescribed test methods and emphasizes the use of pure chemicals and distilled water for accurate analysis.  

The material shall also comply with the requirements given in the table below 

The draft revision further specifies that the product should be packed in suitable containers such as boxes, bottles, drums, or paper sacks, as agreed between the buyer and supplier. Each package must carry essential details including manufacturer information, batch number, manufacturing date, and net weight.  

Additionally, products meeting the standard may be eligible for BIS certification and can bear the Standard Mark under the provisions of the BIS Act, 2016.