Types of Preservatives for Food and Cosmetics

Consumers are more conscious now than ever before about what’s in their food. They also expect their food to last long and taste great. As a manufacturer, it’s your job to make sure your consumers are satisfied and safe from foodborne illnesses. Continue reading to find out what types of preservatives you should be using in your products and how Kraft Chemical can help.

What Are Food Preservatives?

Preservatives are substances used to prevent food and other materials from spoiling. Food preservatives can also help extend your product’s shelf life. These preservatives help prevent the growth of foodborne bacteria and illnesses. They can also boost the longevity of your food product and enhance its overall taste and color.

Core Methods of Food Preservatives

Preservatives help prevent the growth of microorganisms, slow or stop the oxidation process, and pause the expiration process. These antioxidants and antimicrobial methods work together to preserve a fresh-tasting product. They’re also commonly found in cosmetics.

Common Preservatives for Food and Beverages

Below are several common preservatives we carry at Kraft Chemical. We’ve separated these preservatives into two categories: antimicrobials and antioxidants. Both categories have a few key benefits.

Antimicrobials

Antimicrobial methods are commonly used for food and beverage products such as wine, cheese, bread, and pickled vegetables. This type of preservative method can also be used to preserve certain cosmetic products since antimicrobials help prevent microorganism growth.

Examples of antimicrobials include:

Sorbic Acid

Sorbic acid is often used to inhibit yeasts and molds found in food products like processed cheeses, dried fruits, and wine. It can also be used as an antimicrobial agent in cosmetic and personal care products.

Benzoic Acid

If you’re in the beverage industry, you should familiarize yourself with benzoic acid (BA). This agent is often used as an antimicrobial preservative in carbonated drinks. It’s also found in various cosmetic products.

Caprylyl Glycol

This type of preservative is commonly found in cosmetic and personal care products. It hydrates the skin and helps minimize the growth of bacteria and mold. You can use Caprylyl Glycol in everything from moisturizers to face masks.

Types of preservatives

Antioxidants

In addition to antimicrobials, we carry a range of antioxidant preservatives. Antioxidant preservatives are generally found in fresh fruit juices and pre-made salads to prevent premature browning.

Examples of antioxidants include:

Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic acid is a potent antioxidant preservative often found in jams, meats, and bakery products. It has also been linked to supporting collagen growth, making this preservative an ideal choice for cosmetic and skincare applications.

Tocopherol

Tocopherols help preserve the flavors and colors of foods and beverages. This antioxidant preservative delays deterioration or discoloration as a result of oxidation. It can also help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

Citric Acid

Citric acid helps slow the growth of bacteria, yeast, mold, and fungus. It prevents products from spoiling, prolonging the shelf life of foods, beverages, and even cosmetics. Its antioxidant properties might also help protect against anti-aging, making it a great choice for anti-aging products.

BHA (Butylated Hydroxy Anisole) & BHT (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene)

BHA and BHT inhibit the growth of bacteria in products such as oils, margarine, food containing fats, and even dried goods like cereal and other dried goods. This preservative helps keep these products fresh for longer periods, lengthening shelf life.

Propyl Gallate

Propyl gallate is another popular antioxidant used to keep oils and fats from perishing. Examples of products that benefit from this preservative include candy, margarine, and dressings. It can also balance the vitamins in cosmetics such as perfume and oils. 

Preserve Your Products With Kraft Chemical

Since 1935, Kraft Chemical has supplied product manufacturers with Grade-A ingredients. Get the ingredients you need to perfect your food or beverage product and meet regulatory requirements. 

Whether you’re a chef, a baker, or you’re creating an original recipe, you can preserve your products with help from Kraft Chemical. Speak with a specialist today about our preservatives and solutions.