Food additives alkylating agents

HBA is representative of a class of regio-specifically oxidized aromatic molecules that possess a 1-4 symmetry of carboxyl to hydroxyl groups. It is the chief monomer used in LCP s due to its structural symmetry, availability, and favorable pricing relative to the more expensive multiple ring monomers derived from naphthalene. HBA also finds extensive use as an intermediate in the manufacturing of dyes, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals (/). In addition, the n-alkyl esters of HBA (parabens) are widely used as preservatives in food (e.g. in fruit juices), cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and technical products (e.g. antifreeze agents) due to their effective bacteriostatic and fungiastatic properties (2). 

In addition to the use of alkyl gallates as food and cosmetic additives, the multifunctional action of these compounds and their potential application for other purposes has been widely investigated, as described below. Some of these applications, which are discussed below, involve their use as enzymatic inhibitors, as anticancer, antifungal and antimicrobial agents, and as additives in nonfood and noncosmetic industries (Figure 14.2). These applications are mainly based on the antioxidant and prooxidant properties of these compounds, which, together with their potential toxicity, are also discussed below. 

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