Preservatives Sorbic Acid
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What it is
Sorbic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound. It is often produced industrially using chemical synthesis, typically from ketene and crotonaldehyde. It appears as white crystals or powder.
Why it's used
Sorbic acid and its salts (like potassium sorbate) are used as preservatives to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria. This helps extend the shelf life of foods. It is commonly found in baked goods, cheeses, dried fruits, and syrups.
Health notes
Sorbic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated sorbic acid and its salts. Studies on sorbic acid have not shown significant adverse health effects at typical consumption levels. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, though this is rare.
Allergen info
Sorbic acid is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.