Potassium sorbate is an effective inhibitor of the growth of most molds, yeast and many bacteria in a wide spectrum of consumer products. It is derived from sorbic acid, which occurs naturally in some berries.
Identification
Potassium sorbate is created by neutralizing potassium hydroxide with sorbic acid, and it takes the form of a white crystallized salt that is very soluble in water. Since potassium sorbate is highly effective as a food preservative, it is widely employed in bakery, meat processing, dairy, beverage and other food applications. It is easy to handle and easy to incorporate into other formulations.
Benefits
Potassium sorbate increases the shelf life of meats, cheeses and baked goods by preventing microbiological growth inside them. The substance delays the onset and growth of salmonellae bacteria in meats, and it staves off microorganisms and extends the shelf life of many cosmetics, such as skin and hair care products. Winemakers also benefit from potassium sorbate, which acts as a stabilizing agent that prevents refermentation of wine after bottling.
Significance
Potassium sorbate is extremely effective as a food preservative and is regarded as very safe to consume. Because potassium sorbate can be shipped and stored in powder form, it provides a distinct economic advantage to food producers. Potassium sorbate is also inexpensive and has no noticeable flavor at normal usage levels. The preservative efficiency of potassium sorbate is particularly effective in foods with a pH rating up to 6.5.
Time Frame
Vacuum-packed poultry dipped in potassium sorbate experienced a shelf life that was two to three times as long as poultry treated with other preservatives, according to a study published in 1995 in the journal "Poultry Science." Potassium sorbate can also protect skin care and hair products from inadvertent contamination by the consumer during use. Lip gloss and eyeliners have shelf lives of up to two years, whereas moisturizers and sunscreens last up to a year.
Safety
Potassium sorbate is a very mild and natural preservative. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found no evidence demonstrating that potassium sorbate would be a hazard when used at current levels or at levels that might reasonably be expected to be consumed in the future.
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