Sorbic Hydroxamic Acid, an Antifungal Agent Effective over a Wide pH Range

Sorbic hydroxamic acid was prepared from sorbic acid by esterification and treatment with hydroxylamine (mp 133 to 135 C, pK(a) 8.8). Its ultraviolet spectrum in acid solution had a single absorption maximum at 262 mmu; in alkaline solution the maximal absorption shifted to 255 mmu and significant absorption appeared at 280 to 300 mmu. At concentrations of 0.1% (w/v), sorbic hydroxamic acid prevented the growth of Aspergillus niger, Penicillium notatum, Botrytis cinerea, Cladosporium herbarum, and a Rhizopus species in grape juice over the pH range 3.6 to 9.2, although sorbic acid was not effective at pH 5.7 and above.