Introduction
Dehydroacetic Acid (DHA) is a potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent and a versatile chemical intermediate. As a synthetic preservative, it is highly effective against molds, yeasts, and certain bacteria. Its stability across a wide pH range and under heating conditions makes it a valuable additive in industries ranging from food and cosmetics to paints and textiles.
Physical & Chemical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification / Value | Notes / Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | 108 - 110 °C | -- |
| Boiling Point | ~270 °C | At atmospheric pressure. |
| Flash Point | ~157 °C | -- |
| Density/Specific Gravity | Information not available in search results | -- |
| pKa | ~5.27 | Impacts solubility and antimicrobial activity in different pH environments. |
| Solubility | Very low in cold water. Soluble in hot ethanol, acetone, benzene, and ether. Soluble in alkaline solutions to form salts (e.g., sodium dehydroacetate). | Salts are water-soluble. |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Keep the container tightly sealed and protected from light. | Stable under recommended conditions. |
Mechanism of Action: Creating Complex Aroma Profiles
Dehydroacetic Acid functions primarily as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative through a multi-target mechanism:
- Enzyme Inhibition and Chelation: It exerts its preservative effect by strongly inhibiting key cellular enzymes in microorganisms, particularly those involved in energy metabolism and nutrient transport. Additionally, it can chelate essential metal ions, disrupting cellular homeostasis and critical enzymatic functions.
- Broad-Spectrum Efficacy: DHA is exceptionally effective against molds and yeasts, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) typically between 0.05% - 0.1%. It also exhibits activity against a range of bacteria at higher concentrations. Its efficacy against E. coli is notable.
- pH and Thermal Stability: A key advantage is that its antimicrobial activity is largely unaffected by pH in the acidic to neutral range and remains stable under normal heating processes, unlike some other preservatives.
Key Benefits & Efficacy
- Potent and Broad Protection: Provides strong protection against spoilage caused by molds, yeasts, and bacteria, extending product shelf-life significantly.
- Excellent Stability: Maintains efficacy across a wide pH range (optimal pH 3-6) and is heat-stable, making it suitable for a variety of processing conditions.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for use in food systems, cosmetic formulations, and as a biocide in industrial products like coatings and adhesives.
- Synergistic Potential: Can be used in combination with other preservatives (e.g., parabens, benzyl alcohol) to enhance the overall preservative system and combat a wider range of microbes.
- Regulatory Acceptance: Approved for use as a preservative in cosmetics (with defined limits) and historically in specific food categories in many regions.
Primary Applications
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: A widely used synthetic preservative in products like creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), the maximum allowable concentration in cosmetic formulations is 0.6% (calculated as acid), and it is prohibited in sprayable products.
- Food Industry (with important recent restrictions): Historically used as a preservative in foods like pickles, sauces, and baked goods. Critical Update: The latest Chinese national standard GB 2760-2024, effective February 8, 2025, prohibits the use of dehydroacetic acid and its sodium salts in butter, concentrated butter, starch products, bread, pastries, pastry fillings, precooked meat products, and fruit/vegetable juices. Formulators must consult the latest regulations in their target markets.
- Industrial Applications: Used as a biocide in paints, coatings, adhesives, and textile treatments to prevent microbial degradation.
- Chemical Synthesis: Serves as a key intermediate in the production of other chemicals, including its more water-soluble salt form, sodium dehydroacetate.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dehydroacetic Acid safe for skin? What is its EWG rating?
A: In cosmetics, it is considered safe for use at concentrations up to 0.6%. The EWG Skin Deep® database rates it with low to moderate hazard concerns, primarily noting potential issues with developmental/endocrine/reproductive effects based on certain data models. Its overall hazard score reflects that it is a regulated, widely used synthetic preservative with established safety limits.
Q: What are the common side effects or risks?
A: When used within regulatory limits, it is generally well-tolerated. The primary safety concern is at high doses. Animal studies indicate an oral LD₅₀ for rats of 500-1000 mg/kg body weight, classifying it as low-toxicity. As with any chemical, proper handling to avoid inhalation of dust or prolonged skin contact is advised.
Q: Can it be used with Benzyl Alcohol?
A: Yes, Dehydroacetic Acid is often combined with other preservatives like benzyl alcohol to create a broader-spectrum and more robust preservative system. This combination can be more effective against a diverse microbial population.
Q: How does it compare to other common preservatives like parabens?
A: DHA is particularly effective against molds and yeasts and is stable over a wider pH range than some parabens. It offers an alternative for formulators seeking non-paraben options, though its own safety profile is also subject to ongoing review and regulation.
Q: What is the latest regulatory status in food?
A: Regulations are evolving. Notably, China's GB 2760-2024 standard has significantly restricted its use in many common food categories. It is crucial to verify the current legal status and permitted levels in the specific country where the final product will be sold.
Act Now
You can partner with us for your preservative and intermediate needs. Our Dehydroacetic Acid powder is produced to high purity standards, ensuring consistent performance for your formulations.
Contact our technical sales team today to:
- Discuss your specific application and get formulation support.
- Receive a competitive quote for your R&D or production-scale requirements.
Ensure the stability and longevity of your products with a trusted preservative solution.
Please contact us at ella.zhang@huilinbio-tech.com.
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