Potassium Sorbate is a widely recognized and utilized preservative in various industries
Potassium Sorbate is a widely recognized and utilized preservative in various industries, known for its effectiveness in inhibiting microbial growth and extending the shelf life of products. With the chemical formula CH3CH=CH−CH=CH−CO2K, it is a white salt that is highly soluble in water, making it an ideal choice for a broad range of applications.
Chemical Properties
Appearance: Potassium Sorbate is typically available as white crystals or a white crystalline powder.
Solubility: It is very soluble in water, with a solubility of 58.5g/100 mL at 100°C. It is also soluble in ethanol and propylene glycol, slightly soluble in acetone, and very slightly soluble in chloroform, corn oil, ether, and benzene.
Stability: Potassium Sorbate is stable under normal storage conditions but may decompose at high temperatures or when exposed to UV light.
Applications
Food Industry:
Preservative: Potassium Sorbate is primarily used as a food preservative (E number 202), inhibiting the growth of molds, yeasts, and bacteria in a variety of foods and beverages. It is particularly effective in acidic conditions and is used in products such as cheese, wine, yogurt, dried meats, apple cider, dried fruits, soft drinks, fruit drinks, and baked goods.
Nutritional Supplement: It is used in dietary supplements to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life.
Pharmaceutical Industry:
Buffering Agent: Potassium Sorbate is used as a buffering agent in pharmaceutical formulations to maintain the stability of active ingredients.
Antifungal Agent: Its antifungal properties make it useful in various pharmaceutical applications.
Cosmetics and Personal Care:
pH Balancing: It is used to adjust the pH of skincare formulations, enhancing product stability and compatibility with skin.
Chelating Agent: It acts as a chelating agent, binding to metal ions and preventing their interaction with other ingredients, which can cause degradation or instability.
Exfoliation: It provides mild exfoliation, improving the texture and appearance of skin.
Wine Industry:
Stabilizer: Potassium Sorbate is used as a stabilizer and preservative in wine production. It prevents the growth of yeast and mold after fermentation, ensuring the wine remains clear and free from unwanted fermentation.
Safety and Handling
Toxicity: Potassium Sorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in appropriate amounts. The maximum acceptable daily intake for human consumption is 25 mg/kg, or 1750 mg daily for an average adult (70 kg).
Skin and Eye Irritant: In pure form, Potassium Sorbate is a skin, eye, and respiratory irritant. Concentrations up to 0.5% are not significant skin irritants.
Regulatory Information
FDA and EFSA Approval: The use of Potassium Sorbate is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for use in food products, provided it is not used beyond the recommended levels.
Production Methods
Industrial Production: Potassium Sorbate is produced industrially by neutralizing sorbic acid with potassium hydroxide. The precursor sorbic acid is produced in a two-step process via the condensation of crotonaldehyde and ketene.
Conclusion Potassium Sorbate is a versatile and essential ingredient with a wide range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and wine industries. Its ability to inhibit microbial growth, extend shelf life, and enhance product stability makes it an invaluable component in modern manufacturing.