Comprehensive Introduction
Furfural is an organic compound used in the food industry as a flavoring agent and preservative.It prevents the growth of mold and bacteria in food products, extending their shelf life.
Furfural (C₅H₄O₂) is widely used by producers of chemicals, textiles, and biofuels for its versatile properties, including its ability to act as a solvent. It is a precursor for various chemicals and a key component in bio-based plastics.
Furfural, a naturally occurring organic compound derived from agricultural residues like corn cobs, oat hulls, and rice husks, has proven utility in the food, beverage, and packaging industries due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and preservative properties. Recognized for its low toxicity and bio-based origin, food-safe levels of furfural are effective in inhibiting microbial growth, especially molds and bacteria that lead to food spoilage.
In preservative applications, furfural not only extends product shelf life but also supports clean-label trends by offering a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives. This positions it as a valuable ingredient for producers seeking to enhance product stability without compromising on sustainability or safety.
Product Details
| Product Name | Furfural |
| CAS No. | CAS 98-01-1 |
| Key words | 2-Furfuraldehyde, furan-2-carbaldehyde, furan-2- carboxaldehyde, 2-furylmethanal, fural, 2-formyl furan, furanaldehyde, pyromucis aldehyde, ant oil |
| Molecular Formula | C5H4O2 |
| HS Number | 29321200 |
| Structural Formula | ![]() |
Quality Standard for Furfural
|
Items |
Standard |
|
Appearance |
Colorless to light yellow, transparent liquid, becomes brown light yellow or deep redwhen exposedin the airorsunlight. |
|
Purity (%) |
≥98.5 |
|
Moisture (%) |
≤ 0.2 |
|
Acidity(mol/L) |
≤ 0.016 |
|
Density (g/cm³) |
1.161 |
Usage & Core Functions of Furfural
- Natural Antimicrobial Action
At controlled dosages, furfural inhibits the growth of yeasts, molds, and spoilage bacteria, making it a reliable additive for food packaging, processed meats, condiments, and baked goods.
- Shelf-Life Extension
By minimizing microbial activity, furfural helps preserve texture, flavor, and nutritional value, delaying oxidation and spoilage in both dry and liquid food matrices.
- Antioxidant Stability
Furfural contributes to oxidative stability, especially in oil-rich or protein-based products, supporting better sensory retention over time.
- Clean-Label Ingredient
As a naturally derived molecule, furfural allows manufacturers to achieve "no artificial preservative" claims, appealing to label-conscious consumers seeking authenticity and traceability.
- Formulation Versatility
Applicable in food flavorings, biodegradable coatings, and bio-based packaging films, furfural acts as both a functional preservative and a carrier solvent in flavor/emulsion systems.
- Intermediate in Pesticide Production
Furfural serves as an important intermediate in the production of pesticides, including herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, which are used to protect crops in agriculture.
Production Capacity

Full-Cycle Safety Certifications

Recommended Product Applications
Foundry Resins and Furan-based Products
Pharmaceutical Intermediate
Agrochemical Synthesis
Biofuel and Renewable Energy Production
Cleaning Agents and Industrial Solvents
Coatings, Paints, and Printing Inks
Packing
Sealed in: 240-250kg Drum
Sealed in: 1150kg IBC Drum
Sealed in: 20-25MTS PER ISO TANK
Facilitating customer procurement based on actual needs.
FAQ
Q: Is furfural safe for use as a food preservative?
A: Yes. When used within regulatory dosage limits, furfural is safe and effective. It is approved for use as a flavoring agent and antimicrobial by several food safety authorities.
Q: What types of spoilage does furfural prevent?
A: Furfural inhibits the growth of common spoilage organisms such as molds, yeasts, and some bacteria, particularly in moisture-sensitive food systems.
Q: Does furfural affect the flavor of food products?
A: At low concentrations, furfural can enhance the flavor profile with a lightly sweet, nutty note, especially in bakery and roasted items.
Q: Can furfural be used in combination with other preservatives?
A: Yes. Furfural can complement other natural preservatives, extending overall protection while reducing dependence on synthetic additives.
Quality Standard for Furfural
|
Items |
Standard |
|
Appearance |
Colorless to light yellow, transparent liquid, becomes brown light yellow or deep redwhen exposedin the airorsunlight. |
|
Purity (%) |
≥98.5 |
|
Moisture (%) |
≤ 0.2 |
|
Acidity(mol/L) |
≤ 0.016 |
|
Density (g/cm³) |
1.161 |
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