benzoate

[ben-zoh-eyt, -it]

noun

Chemistry.

1. a salt or ester of benzoic acid.

benzoate

/ -ɪt, ˈbɛnzəʊˌeɪt /

noun

1. Systematic name: benzenecarboxylate. any salt or ester of benzoic acid, containing the group C 6 H 5 COO– or the ion C 6 H 5 COO ^–

benzoate

1. A salt or ester of benzoic acid, having the general formula C ₆ H ₅ COOR, where R is an element or group that has replaced the hydrogen in the carboxyl group (COOH) of benzoic acid. In salts of benzoic acid, R is a metal, while in esters of benzoic acid, R is another radical, such as methyl.

Word History and Origins

Origin of benzoate¹

First recorded in 1800–10; benzo- + -ate ²

Example Sentences

Cranberries' flavor and aroma come from compounds in the fruit such as cinnamates that add cinnamon notes, vanillin for hints of vanilla, benzoates and benzaldehyde, which tastes like almonds.

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Common additives like sugar, salt, vinegar and alcohol have been used as preservatives for centuries, but modern-day food labels now reveal more unfamiliar ingredients such as sodium benzoate, calcium propionate, and potassium sorbate.

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In the realm of additives, substances like tartrazine and sodium benzoate emerge as potential instigators of urticaria and asthma.

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Here’s the prettiest blue brew of carbonated water, sugar and sodium benzoate that you’ll ever see.

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The FDA also said an antifungal preservative called sodium benzoate may form benzene under certain circumstances.

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