Boric acid

Other names: Boricum acidum, Pine water, E284

Boric acid is one of the most versatile substances, popular mainly for its antiseptic and preservative properties. Its other names are Boricum acidum, Boric acid water or E284, also known in the food industry. These are all designations for a white crystalline or powdery substance that is easily soluble in cold water. Boric acid is used not only in industry, but also in households and medicine.

One of the most widespread applications of boric acid is as an ingredient in some detergents, especially those used for cleaning teeth or contact lenses. It is also used to prevent mould and rot in the food industry, where it is added to food as preservative E284. It is put in to prevent the growth of microorganisms and thus prolong the shelf life of food. Increasingly, however, its use is being abandoned because of potential health risks. In medicine, it is used as an antiseptic, which helps in the treatment of certain skin diseases. Scientific studies have shown that boric acid is toxic to some insect pests and so has become a component of some pesticides.