4-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid

4-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid is an organic compound with the formula. It is a colorless or white solid but commercial samples can appear beige. It is found in olive oil and beer.

Synthesis

4-Hydroxyphenylacetic acid is obtained by reducing 4-hydroxymandelic acid with elemental phosphorus and iodine.

Uses

In industry, 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid is an intermediate to atenolol, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and coclaurine.