Malic acid is widely found in fruits and vegetables. It inhibits the growth of yeasts and some bacteria due to a decrease in pH.
Tartaric acid is present in fruits such as grapes and pineapples. The antimicrobial activity of this acid is attributed to pH reduction.
Benzoic acid is the oldest and most commonly used preservative. It occurs naturally in cranberries, raspberries, plums, prunes, cinnamon, and cloves. As an additive, sodium salt in benzoic acid is suitable for foods and beverages with pH below 4.5. Benzoic acid is primarily used as an antifungal agent in fruit-based and fruit beverages, fruit products, bakery products, and margarine.