The preservatives have been widely used in food, drugs and cosmetic products to prevent their aging and decay. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of some preservatives, such as benzoic acid, sorbic acid and alkyl-parabens, were considered in this work. Study of antioxidant properties of these compounds was carried out by differential pulse voltammetry together with evaluation of their influence on the kinetics of the electrochemical oxygen reduction. Mathematical models of the processes were obtained and their adequacy was estimated using design of experiment methods. As a result, the kinetic parameters of interaction between reactive oxygen species and preservatives were evaluation. Finally, the use of these substances as antimicrobials and antioxidants ensured product stability and safety has been recommended. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.