Benzoic acid naturally exists in various plants and animals, and can be extracted from substances such as benzoin gum. Industrially, it is mainly produced by the oxidation of toluene extracted from petroleum. It has a wide range of uses, mainly as a preservative in the food and beverage industry, which can inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria under acidic conditions.

In the medical field, it is used to treat skin tinea diseases, often in combination with salicylic acid. It is also an important intermediate in the synthesis of drugs, dyes, fragrances, etc., and can be used to produce plasticizers, phenolic compounds, and other chemicals.