Potassium Sorbate And Salt

Potassium sorbate is a salt of sorbic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in some plants. It is manufactured by neutralizing sorbic acid with potassium hydroxide. It is commonly used as a preservative in food products.

Potassium sorbate is added to foods to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, thus extending shelf life. It is often found in cheese, wine, yogurt, dried fruits, and baked goods. It is effective at low concentrations and does not significantly alter the taste or appearance of food.

Potassium sorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. It has been evaluated by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), both of which have reviewed its safety. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions or sensitivities, though this is uncommon. It is not known to be carcinogenic or genotoxic.