Potassium Sorbate As Preservative

Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. Sorbic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in some plants, like the rowan berry. It is manufactured synthetically for use as a food additive.

Potassium sorbate is primarily used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods. It is effective in acidic conditions and is commonly found in products like cheese, wine, yogurt, dried meats, and baked goods.

Potassium sorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. It is not known to cause adverse health effects at typical consumption levels. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated potassium sorbate and found it safe for consumption. Some individuals may experience mild allergic reactions like skin rashes or digestive upset, but this is rare.