Potassium Sorbate (E202) is a potassium salt of sorbic acid widely used as a preservative in the food, beverage, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is valued for its ability to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi, thereby extending the shelf life of products without altering their taste or odor.
This versatile and safe additive is recognized globally for its effectiveness and compliance with food safety standards.
CAS Number: 24634-61-5
EC Number: 246-376-1
Molecular Formula: C6H7KO2
Molecular Weight: 150.22 g/mol
Synonyms: Potassium Sorbate, E202, Sorbic Acid Potassium Salt, Food Preservative E202, Potassium Hexadienoate, Preservative Potassium Sorbate, Sorbistat-K, Potassium Sorbate Food Grade, Potassium Sorbate Preservative Additive, Sorbate of Potassium, Potassium Sorbate Pharmaceutical Grade, Potassium Sorbate Antimicrobial, Mold Inhibitor Potassium Sorbate, Yeast Inhibitor Potassium Sorbate, Potassium Sorbate Cosmetic Grade, Sorbic Acid Salt, Potassium Sorbate Stabilizer, Potassium Sorbate Shelf-Life Enhancer, Potassium Sorbate Fungal Inhibitor, Preservative Salt Potassium Sorbate, Food-Grade Mold Inhibitor
APPLICATIONS
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is widely used in baked goods and pastries to inhibit mold growth and maintain freshness.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is employed in dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, to prevent spoilage by yeast and fungi.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is included in beverages, including fruit juices and soft drinks, to enhance shelf life without altering flavor.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is utilized in sauces, dressings, and condiments to prevent microbial growth and ensure product stability.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is a preferred preservative in wine and cider production, preventing secondary fermentation during storage.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is applied in dried fruits and nuts to prevent mold growth during extended storage.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is found in personal care products, such as shampoos, lotions, and creams, to prevent microbial contamination.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is used in pharmaceutical products, including syrups and topical formulations, as a preservative.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is incorporated into pet food to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is applied in frozen desserts, such as ice cream and sorbet, to ensure stability and prevent microbial growth.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is used in pickled vegetables and fermented foods to control unwanted fermentation.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is found in dietary supplements and vitamin formulations to preserve active ingredients.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is utilized in meat and poultry products to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is used in baked snack foods, including crackers and cookies, to prevent spoilage.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is applied in confectionery products, such as candies and gummies, to ensure microbial stability.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is included in processed seafood, such as smoked fish, to inhibit microbial growth.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is employed in salad dressings and mayonnaise to enhance stability and shelf life.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is used in flavored syrups and dessert toppings to prevent yeast and mold growth.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is incorporated into cosmetics and hair care formulations as an effective preservative.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is added to processed fruits and vegetables to maintain quality and extend shelf life.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is a key additive in ready-to-eat meals to inhibit microbial spoilage during storage.
DESCRIPTION
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is a white to off-white crystalline powder or granular substance, highly soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol.
This compound is odorless and has a neutral taste, making it ideal for preserving a wide variety of food and beverage products.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is effective at low concentrations and across a broad pH range, ensuring versatility and reliability in various applications.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) exhibits excellent stability under normal storage conditions, maintaining its preservative properties over time.
Its non-toxic and biodegradable nature makes Potassium Sorbate (E202) a preferred choice for eco-friendly and sustainable formulations.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is widely recognized for its compliance with food safety regulations, including those set by the FDA and EFSA.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is suitable for use in sensitive products where minimal flavor or odor alteration is required.
This compound is commonly used in low-water-activity products to inhibit mold and yeast growth effectively.
Potassium Sorbate (E202) is compatible with a variety of ingredients and formulations, allowing seamless integration into diverse applications.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: C6H7KO2
Molecular Weight: 150.22 g/mol
Common Name: Potassium Sorbate (E202)
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder or granules
Density: Approx. 1.36 g/cm³
Melting Point: Decomposes without melting
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; slightly soluble in ethanol
pH (1% Solution): Neutral to slightly acidic (approx. 6–7)
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable in recommended storage conditions
Storage Temperature: Store below 25°C in a dry, well-ventilated area
Vapor Pressure: Negligible
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
If dust or aerosols of Potassium Sorbate (E202) are inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.
Ingestion:
If Potassium Sorbate (E202) is ingested, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.
Seek immediate medical attention if discomfort persists.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote.
Provide supportive care.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing, when handling Potassium Sorbate (E202).
Use in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to airborne particles.
Ventilation:
Ensure proper ventilation during handling to prevent airborne particle accumulation.
Use local exhaust systems if necessary.
Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release.
Sweep or vacuum the material carefully to avoid creating dust and collect for disposal.
Dispose of waste according to local regulations.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible materials.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
Protect from contamination and extreme temperatures.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid exposure to strong oxidizing agents.
Ensure storage containers are clean and compatible with the material.