Formic acid (85%) is one of the simplest and most basic organic compounds used in the feed and food industries. It can be found in the venom of ants and bees and in stinging nettle.

It is commonly used in beekeeping.

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Formic acid has strong antifungal and antibacterial properties.

It is often used as a preservative and an acidifying agent.

Formic acid is a very common ingredient in acidifying mixtures added to animal feeds. It is added to feeds at a ratio of 0.2%–1% by weight. Its water solubility is excellent.

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This acid is used as a food additive (known as E236).