Potassium Sorbate

What is Potassium Sorbate?

Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, chemical formula CH3CH=CH−CH=CH−CO2K. It is a white salt that is very soluble in water (58.2% at 20 °C).

It is primarily used as a food preservative (E number 202). Potassium sorbate is effective in a variety of applications including food, wine, and personal-care products. Potassium sorbate is used to inhibit Molds and yeasts in many foods, such as cheese, wine, yogurt, dried meats, apple cider, dried fruits, soft drinks and fruit drinks, ice cream, canned fruit and vegetables, and baked goods.

Potassium sorbate is used as an antimicrobial and preservative in personal care items, as well, such as:

• Eyeshadow and other cosmetics
• Shampoos and moisturizers
• Contact lens solution

Potassium sorbate is also approved for safe use as a preservative in moist cat and dog foods and in other animal feed.