Potassium Sorbate And Polysorbate 60
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.
What it is
Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a naturally occurring organic compound. It is typically produced industrially through a chemical reaction involving potassium hydroxide and sorbic acid. Polysorbate 60 is a synthetic emulsifier made from sorbitol and stearic acid.
Why it's used
Potassium sorbate is used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods like cheese, wine, yogurt, and baked goods. Polysorbate 60 is an emulsifier that helps mix oil and water-based ingredients, commonly found in baked goods, icings, and whipped toppings.
Health notes
Potassium sorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. Both potassium sorbate and polysorbate 60 have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions or digestive upset. Research has not established a definitive link between these ingredients at normal intake levels and adverse health outcomes.
Allergen info
Neither potassium sorbate nor polysorbate 60 are derived from or are considered one of the 9 FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.