Potassium Sorbate is a synthetically made salt that is used commonly as a preservative in a variety of foods. Its primary role as a preservative is to prevent the growth of mold. As a preservative, it can also be found in personal care products and dietary supplements. Potassium Sorbate has the chemical formula C6H7KO2 and a molecular mass of 150,22 g/mol.
Potassium Sorbate Benefits and Uses
Potassium Sorbate is used primarily as an antimicrobial agent in foods and cosmetic products. Its role as a food additive is to act as a preservative to increase the shelf life of food and cosmetic products.
Potassium Sorbate is known by a number of alternative names including:
- E202
- Sorbistat-K
- Potassium (E,E)-sorbate
- Sorbistat-potassium
- Potassium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
- Potassium 2,4-hexadienoate
Scientific Consensus
As a preservative, potassium sorbate is regarded as safe and non-toxic with an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 25 mg/kg body weight per day. Possible reported side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, eye and skin irritation.