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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Potassium sorbate is a preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and some …
What it is
Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. It is produced synthetically from sorbic acid, which can be derived from natural sources but is typically made from chemicals like ketene and crotonaldehyde. It appears as a white crystalline powder.
Why it's used
Potassium sorbate is a preservative that inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria. This helps extend the shelf life of foods. It is commonly found in products like cheese, wine, yogurt, dried meats, and baked goods.
Health notes
In the U.S., potassium sorbate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated potassium sorbate and found it safe for consumption within specified limits. Some studies suggest it may cause allergic reactions or hypersensitivity in a small number of individuals, but this is rare at typical consumption levels.
Allergen info
Potassium sorbate is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.