Ingredient · E201, E202

Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
These ingredients are added to foods to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and …

What is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate?

Sodium propionate and potassium sorbate are salts derived from propionic acid and sorbic acid, respectively. These acids are naturally found in some fermented foods, but are typically produced industrially for food use. They function as antimicrobial preservatives.

Is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate vegan?

Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate gluten-free?

They do not contain gluten.

Is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate used for?

These ingredients are added to foods to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, which helps extend shelf life.

Is Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate safe?

In the U.S., sodium propionate and potassium sorbate are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices.

Why it's used

These ingredients are added to foods to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, which helps extend shelf life. They are commonly found in baked goods like cakes, breads, and pastries, as well as in some dairy products and processed meats.

Health notes

In the U.S., sodium propionate and potassium sorbate are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used according to good manufacturing practices. Both have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA, which have established acceptable daily intake levels. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some individuals may experience sensitivities.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. Neither sodium propionate nor potassium sorbate are derived from the major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Sodium Propionate & Potassium Sorbate

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THE BAKERY Peach Pie Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 333kcal 3.5Protein 16.7Fat 42.1Carbs Conagra Frozen Foods Banquet, Chicken & Buttermilk Biscuit Snack Size Sandwiches, Banquet, Chicken & Buttermilk Biscuit Snack Size Sandwiches Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 33% DV per serving 284kcal 11.6Protein 11.6Fat 33.7Carbs 7-Eleven, Inc. Mini Pie, Peach Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in added sugars — 34% DV per serving 422kcal 4.4Protein 22.2Fat 53.3Carbs Lone Star Consolidated Foods, Inc. Strawberry Cream Cheese King Cake, Strawberry Cream Cheese Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in added sugars — 34% DV per serving 333kcal 3.5Protein 8.8Fat 57.9Carbs Lone Star Consolidated Foods, Inc. Strawberry King Cake, Strawberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in added sugars — 30% DV per serving 316kcal 3.5Protein 7.9Fat 59.6Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Strawberry Flavored Topped Cheesecake Pie, Strawberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 70% DV per serving High in added sugars — 88% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 356kcal 3.8Protein 18.2Fat 44.7Carbs Conagra Frozen Foods Sausage & Buttermilk Biscuit Snack Size Sandwiches, Sausage & Buttermilk Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in sodium — 32% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 42% DV per serving 374kcal 9.9Protein 25.3Fat 25.3Carbs Conagra Frozen Foods Chicken & Buttermilk Biscuit Snack Size Sandwiches, Chicken & Buttermilk Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches, Biscuits & Meals High in sodium — 33% DV per serving 284kcal 11.6Protein 11.6Fat 33.7Carbs Lone Star Consolidated Foods, Inc. King Cake, Strawberry Cream Cheese Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in added sugars — 24% DV per serving 345kcal 5.5Protein 10.9Fat 52.7Carbs Bake Crafters Food Company Biscuits, Lower Sodium, Sliced, 3" Bread High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 316kcal 7.0Protein 12.3Fat 45.6Carbs Bake Crafters Food Company Biscuits, Buttermilk, Sliced, 3", Premium Bread High in sodium — 29% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 342kcal 7.6Protein 13.9Fat 44.3Carbs

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

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.