Potassium sorbate-Food and Cosmetic Grade Broad-spectrum Natural Preservative

Potassium sorbate-Food and Cosmetic Grade Broad-spectrum Natural Preservative(CAS 24634-61-5)

• Potassium Sorbate (CAS 24634-61-5, E202) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a naturally occurring unsaturated fatty acid originally isolated from mountain ash berries (Sorbus aucuparia). As one of the world's most widely used and trusted preservatives, it has been safely used in food and cosmetics for over 70 years.

• Its antimicrobial mechanism works by inhibiting microbial enzyme systems and disrupting cell membrane function, providing highly effective control against molds, yeasts, and fungi. Unlike many synthetic preservatives, Potassium Sorbate is metabolized in the body like other fatty acids, breaking down completely into carbon dioxide and water with no accumulation.

Physicochemical Parameters

Key Benefits 

✅ Naturally Derived - Originally isolated from mountain ash berries; nature-identical preservative
✅ Exceptional Safety - LD₅₀ = 10.5 g/kg (similar to table salt); ADI 0-25 mg/kg bw/day; no accumulation in body
✅ Broad-Spectrum Antifungal - Excellent activity against molds, yeasts, and fungi; primary anti-mycotic preservative
✅ Clean Metabolism - Completely metabolized to CO₂ and H₂O in human body like natural fatty acids
✅ pH Versatile (Acidic) - Effective at pH 3.0-6.5; ideal for acidic formulations and natural products
✅ Synergistic Preservation - Works exceptionally well with Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, and organic acids
✅ Excellent Water Solubility - 139 g/100 mL water; easy to incorporate into aqueous formulations
✅ Heat Stable - Stable up to 270°C; withstands pasteurization and sterilization processes
✅ Cost-Effective - Low use rates, proven performance, and global availability
✅ HALAL/KOSHER Certified - Suitable for all dietary and religious requirements

Applications

Food & Beverage Industry:
• Baked goods: Bread, cakes, pastries, fillings, frostings
• Dairy: Cheese, yogurt, cream, processed dairy products
• Beverages: Juices, soft drinks, wine, beer, cider, flavored waters
• Processed foods: Jams, jellies, preserves, pickles, sauces, dressings
• Meat & seafood: Processed meats, fish products, seafood
• Snacks & confectionery: Dried fruits, nuts, candies, energy bars
• Dietary supplements: Vitamins, protein powders, liquid supplements

Cosmetics & Personal Care:
• Skincare: Creams, lotions, serums, toners, masks (pH < 6.5 formulations)
• Hair care: Shampoos, conditioners, hair treatments
• Body care: Body washes, shower gels, liquid soaps
• Wet wipes: Baby wipes, facial wipes, cleansing towelettes
• Oral care: Toothpastes, mouthwashes, oral rinses
• Note: Prohibited in aerosol sprays per EU regulation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Document RequestFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Document Request

Q1: What is the difference between Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate?
A: Sorbic Acid is the free acid form (C₆H₈O₂), while Potassium Sorbate is its potassium salt. Potassium Sorbate has dramatically better water solubility (139 g/100mL vs 0.16 g/100mL for sorbic acid), making it much easier to use in aqueous formulations. Both convert to active sorbic acid in acidic conditions.

Q2: What is the maximum allowable concentration in cosmetics?
A:

• EU Regulation: Maximum 0.6% (calculated as sorbic acid). PROHIBITED in aerosol spray products.

• US FDA: GRAS status, no specific cosmetic limit; generally 0.1-0.5%

• China: Maximum 0.6% (as sorbic acid) in cosmetics per Safety and Technical Standards.

Q3: At what pH range is Potassium Sorbate most effective?
A: Potassium Sorbate is most effective at pH 3.0 to 5.5. Its activity decreases significantly above pH 6.0 and is essentially inactive above pH 6.5. It works best in acidic formulations like toners, AHAs/BHAs products, and acidic natural formulations.

Q4: What are the best synergistic combinations for Potassium Sorbate?
A: The most effective combinations are:

• Classic broad-spectrum: 0.2% Potassium Sorbate + 0.2% Sodium Benzoate (pH 4.0-5.5)

• Clean beauty system: 0.3% Potassium Sorbate + 0.5% 1,2-Octanediol + 0.1% Ethylhexylglycerin

• Natural/organic: 0.3% Potassium Sorbate + 0.3% Sodium Benzoate + pH adjustment to 4.5-5.0

Q5: Is Potassium Sorbate considered "natural" or approved for organic cosmetics?
A: Potassium Sorbate (E202) is approved for use in organic food standards. In cosmetics, it is accepted by most natural certification bodies including Ecocert and COSMOS (with restrictions). While nature-identical to the compound found in berries, it is typically produced synthetically for commercial use.

Q6: Can Potassium Sorbate cause skin irritation or sensitization?
A: Potassium Sorbate has an excellent safety profile. At typical use levels (0.1-0.6%), it is non-irritating and non-sensitizing. It has one of the lowest irritation potentials among all cosmetic preservatives. Rare reactions may occur in individuals with specific sensitivities.

Q7: What are proper storage and handling conditions?
A: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Keep away from strong oxidizing agents. Potassium Sorbate is hygroscopic - protect from moisture. Under proper conditions, shelf life is 24 months from manufacture.

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