What is Potassium Sorbate
Potassium sorbate is a unique chemical whose synthetic equivalent, produced from potassium hydroxide and sorbic acid, is deemed “nature identical” because its shape and chemical behavior mimic the natural form found in fruits, such as the mountain ash or rowan berry. Bell Chem, the food ingredient distributor, has information on potassium sorbate to help you decide how your business or industry can utilize this important ingredient.
The main function of potassium sorbate is to control bacteria, which it has done successfully since its discovery in the 1850s in France. Once bacteria and other microbial growth are eliminated, the shelf life of products lengthens considerably. You will find potassium sorbate on the list of ingredients across industries in products consumed by humans, such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Animals also consume potassium sorbate in feed and kibble. Because potassium sorbate has been researched and used more than 50 years across industries, it has a proven record of effectiveness.
In foods and beverages, potassium sorbate eliminates the growth of bacteria, fungi, mold, and yeast while not affecting the taste, smell, or appearance of products. Even better, potassium sorbate is active at room temperature and is soluble in water. Potassium sorbate can be found in carbonated beverages, baked goods, dried meats and fruits, fermented foods, canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products (cheese, yogurt, and ice cream), fish products (roe, garum, fish patties, and artificial crab), and wines and juices. Wines and other fermented foods and beverages benefit from potassium sorbate’s antimicrobial powers because it stops yeast from reacting with products upon its addition to the finished bottle.
Animal feeds often utilize potassium sorbate as a preservative. It is often found on the ingredient label of moist pet foods and in commercial animal feed.
In cosmetics, look for potassium sorbate in eyeshadow, makeup, lotions, and creams as an antimicrobial and preservative. It is also available in hair products such as shampoos, in sunscreen, and in contact lens solution, where it prevents bacterial growth on lenses. Many products with high water content will contain potassium sorbate.
Dietary supplements often include potassium sorbate to extend shelf life.
Bell Chem is a food ingredient distributor based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including potassium sorbate. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.