Recommendations for Producers and Consumers

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 138 views

Determining Benzoic Acid Levels in Traditional Cough Medicine Preparations: A Thin Layer Chromatography and Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry Approach

Introduction

Benzoic acid (C6H5COOH) is a widely used preservative in the food industry, known for its effectiveness in preventing the growth of fungi and bacteria. Its application is particularly significant in products with a pH range of 2.5 to 4.0. In the context of traditional cough medicine preparations, the determination of benzoic acid levels is crucial to ensure that the product meets the safety and health standards set by the government. This article discusses the process of determining the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough drug preparations in the form of tablets, as well as the analytical method used.

Analysis Methodology: A Combination of Thin Layer Chromatography and Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry

The process of analyzing benzoic acid levels involves two stages: qualitative and quantitative. The first stage involves the use of thin layer chromatography (TLC) to determine the presence of benzoic acid. In this study, the mobile phase used was a mixture of pentane and glacial acetic acid in a ratio of 88:12, with a stationary phase in the form of GF Silica GF 254. This method allows for the separation and identification of benzoic acid in the sample.

After confirmation of the presence of benzoic acid, the second stage involves quantitatively determining levels using ultraviolet spectrophotometry (UV). At this stage, 0.2% benzoic acid standard solution is used as a reference, with measurements carried out at a wavelength of 225 nm. The results obtained show that the level of benzoic acid in the Shi Re Qing herbal medicine is 0.012%. This method provides a precise and accurate measurement of the benzoic acid content in the sample.

Analysis of Results: A Safe and Compliant Product

The results of this analysis indicate that the level of benzoic acid in SHI Re Qing's herbal medicine is still below the maximum limit allowed by the regulations stipulated by the General Assembly of the POM (MA.PPOM) No. 35/OT/93, which stipulates that the level of benzoic acid in the drug preparation should not be more than 0.1%. This is an encouraging result because it shows that the product is safe for consumption in accordance with applicable regulations.

The Importance of Determining Benzoic Acid Levels: A Matter of Consumer Safety and Transparency

Determination of benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine is very important for several reasons. First, this is directly related to consumer safety. Levels that are too high can cause side effects or allergic reactions for some people. Second, this analysis supports transparency and accountability in the traditional medicine industry, where consumers have the right to know what is contained in the products they consume. Third, by meeting the standards set, producers can increase public confidence in their products.

Conclusion: A Reliable and Accurate Method for Determining Benzoic Acid Levels

Determination of benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations, as carried out at Shi Re Qing's herbal medicine, is an important process that involves the right analysis method. Through the use of thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry, the results of the analysis show that the level of benzoic acid in the product is safe and in accordance with applicable regulations. Thus, producers and consumers can feel more confident in using this traditional cough medicine preparation.

Future Directions: Expanding the Scope of Analysis

The analysis of benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations is a crucial step in ensuring the safety and quality of the product. However, there is still room for improvement in this area. Future studies can focus on expanding the scope of analysis to include other preservatives commonly used in traditional medicine preparations. Additionally, the development of more sensitive and accurate analytical methods can help to further improve the quality of traditional medicine products.

Recommendations for Producers and Consumers

For producers of traditional cough medicine preparations, it is essential to ensure that the levels of benzoic acid in their products meet the safety and health standards set by the government. This can be achieved by implementing regular quality control measures, including the analysis of benzoic acid levels using thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry.

For consumers, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with high levels of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations. By choosing products that meet the safety and health standards set by the government, consumers can ensure their safety and well-being.

Conclusion: A Safe and Reliable Traditional Cough Medicine Preparation

In conclusion, the determination of benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations is a critical step in ensuring the safety and quality of the product. Through the use of thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry, the results of the analysis show that the level of benzoic acid in the product is safe and in accordance with applicable regulations. Thus, producers and consumers can feel more confident in using this traditional cough medicine preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Determining Benzoic Acid Levels in Traditional Cough Medicine Preparations

Q: What is benzoic acid and why is it used in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Benzoic acid (C6H5COOH) is a widely used preservative in the food industry, known for its effectiveness in preventing the growth of fungi and bacteria. Its application is particularly significant in products with a pH range of 2.5 to 4.0. In traditional cough medicine preparations, benzoic acid is used to prevent the growth of microorganisms and to extend the shelf life of the product.

Q: Why is it important to determine the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Determining the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations is crucial to ensure that the product meets the safety and health standards set by the government. High levels of benzoic acid can cause side effects or allergic reactions in some people, while low levels may not be effective in preventing the growth of microorganisms.

Q: What are the methods used to determine the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: The methods used to determine the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations include thin layer chromatography (TLC) and ultraviolet spectrophotometry (UV). TLC is used to separate and identify benzoic acid in the sample, while UV is used to measure the concentration of benzoic acid in the sample.

Q: What are the benefits of using thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry to determine the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: The benefits of using thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry to determine the level of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations include:

High accuracy and precision
Fast and efficient analysis
Low cost and easy to perform
Ability to detect low levels of benzoic acid

Q: What are the potential risks associated with high levels of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: The potential risks associated with high levels of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations include:

Side effects or allergic reactions in some people
Interference with the effectiveness of other ingredients in the product
Potential for contamination or spoilage of the product

Q: How can producers of traditional cough medicine preparations ensure that their products meet the safety and health standards set by the government?

A: Producers of traditional cough medicine preparations can ensure that their products meet the safety and health standards set by the government by:

Implementing regular quality control measures, including the analysis of benzoic acid levels using thin layer chromatography and ultraviolet spectrophotometry
Ensuring that the product is manufactured and packaged in a clean and sanitary environment
Providing clear and accurate labeling of the product, including the level of benzoic acid present

Q: What can consumers do to ensure their safety and well-being when using traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Consumers can ensure their safety and well-being when using traditional cough medicine preparations by:

Choosing products that meet the safety and health standards set by the government
Reading and following the instructions on the label carefully
Consulting with a healthcare professional before using any new product
Monitoring their body's response to the product and reporting any adverse effects to the manufacturer or healthcare professional.

Q: Are there any other preservatives commonly used in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Yes, there are other preservatives commonly used in traditional cough medicine preparations, including:

Sodium benzoate
Potassium sorbate
Calcium propionate
Sodium propionate

Q: Can you recommend any resources for further information on determining benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Yes, there are several resources available for further information on determining benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations, including:

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP)
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
The World Health Organization (WHO)

Q: Are there any future directions for research on determining benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations?

A: Yes, there are several future directions for research on determining benzoic acid levels in traditional cough medicine preparations, including:

Developing more sensitive and accurate analytical methods
Expanding the scope of analysis to include other preservatives commonly used in traditional medicine preparations
Investigating the potential health effects of high levels of benzoic acid in traditional cough medicine preparations.