Use of compounds of formula (I) wherein R
1
is substituted or unsubstituted C
8
-C
30
alkyl or substituted or unsubstituted C
3
-C
7
cyclo-alkyl, and R
2
is H, COOH or substituted or unsubstituted O-C
1
-C
30
alkyl, in the antimicrobial treatment of surfaces, in the preservation of cosmetics, household products, textiles and plastics, and for use in disinfectants.