Calcium sorbate

What is Calcium sorbate?

A food additive from the preservative category. For industrial use, it is obtained through chemical processes, being the calcium salt of sorbic acid (E 200). It is an effective preservative, especially against molds and yeasts, but not against bacteria. It works best at pH levels below 6.5 (in acidic and slightly acidic products). Sorbates are also used in combination with benzoates in products such as non-alcoholic flavored beverages (soft drinks), low-alcoholic beverages, concentrated liquid tea (used in dispensers), some preserved fruit and vegetable products, low-sugar jams and jellies, olives and olive-based products, fish products, crustaceans, shrimp, mollusks, emulsified and non-emulsified sauces, spices, seasonings, mustard, prepared salads, dairy-based desserts (non-thermally treated), liquid egg preservation, food for special medical purposes, liquid dietary supplements, and chewing gum.

Why is Calcium sorbate added to food?

Calcium sorbate (E203) is a preservative commonly found in: Processed cheese, frozen potatoes, bakery products.

Permitted quantity: The maximum daily intake for humans of accumulated sorbic acid and its potassium and calcium salts is up to 25 mg/kg body weight, a dose at which no side effects have been reported. This is a small dose, which can easily be exceeded, especially with high bread consumption (500g of bread contains 1000 mg of sorbates, which is the maximum dose for a person weighing 40 kg).

Is Calcium sorbate safe?

Some people may experience allergic reactions.

Is Calcium sorbate banned anywhere?

Common foods that contain Calcium sorbate

• Processed cheese
• frozen potatoes
• bakery products

See the full list of foods that contain Calcium sorbate →

How to spot Calcium sorbate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

• E203
• Calcium sorbate

Better alternatives

• People with allergies or sensitivity to calcium sorbate may experience adverse reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing. • Excessive consumption of calcium sorbate may cause irritation of the digestive tract, such as abdominal pain or bloating. • People with kidney conditions should be cautious in using this ingredient as it may put additional stress on the kidneys. • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using calcium sorbate.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

• ealcium sorbate
• calcium $orbate
• calcium sorbate
• calclum sorbate
• calcium sorbdte
• caleium sorbate
• cdlcium sorbate

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