Ingredient · E202

Potassium Sorbate Sodium Bisulfite

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Potassium sorbate is added to foods to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and …

What it is

Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. It is a naturally occurring compound, but is typically manufactured synthetically. It is commonly used as a food preservative.

Why it's used

Potassium sorbate is added to foods to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, thus extending shelf life. It is frequently found in products like cheese, wine, yogurt, dried fruits, and baked goods.

Health notes

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 or sensitivities, though this is rare.

Allergen info

Potassium sorbate is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Potassium Sorbate Sodium Bisulfite

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.