0.1% Potassium Sorbate

Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. It is a synthetic chemical compound that is often used as a preservative. It is produced by neutralizing sorbic acid with potassium hydroxide.

Potassium sorbate is a food additive used to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi in foods. This helps to extend the shelf life of products such as cheese, pickles, olives, and deli salads. It is effective in acidic conditions and is often used in combination with other preservatives.

Potassium sorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used as a food preservative. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated potassium sorbate. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions or sensitivities. Research into its long-term effects is ongoing, but no significant health concerns have been widely established at permitted levels.