Potassium sorbate
Learn what Potassium sorbate (E202) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Potassium sorbate?
Potassium sorbate, or E202, is a food additive from the preservative category. For industrial use, it is obtained through chemical processes, being the potassium 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).
Why is Potassium sorbate added to food?
Potassium sorbate (E202) is a preservative commonly found in: Sliced bread, doughs, sauces, semi-processed seafood.
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 Potassium sorbate safe?
Low concern
After consuming the E202 food additive, side effects such as allergic reactions may occur.
Is Potassium sorbate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Potassium sorbate
- Sliced bread
- doughs
- sauces
- semi-processed seafood
How to spot Potassium sorbate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E202
- Potassium sorbate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- potassium sorbate
- potassium sorbdte
- potdssium sorbate
- pota$sium sorbate
- potas$ium sorbate
- dotassium sorbate
- potasslum sorbate
- potassium $orbate
Better alternatives
• People with sensitivity or allergies to potassium sorbate may experience adverse reactions, including skin rashes, itching, or swelling. • Excessive consumption may cause irritation of the digestive tract, such as abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea. • Not recommended for people with kidney conditions, as there may be risks related to potassium accumulation in the body. • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using potassium sorbate.
Also known as
- potassium sorbate
- potassium sorbdte
- potdssium sorbate
- pota$sium sorbate
- potas$ium sorbate
- dotassium sorbate
- potasslum sorbate
- potassium $orbate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Potassium sorbate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E202 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Potassium sorbate
- Is Potassium sorbate safe to eat?
- After consuming the E202 food additive, side effects such as allergic reactions may occur.
- Is Potassium sorbate banned anywhere?
- Potassium sorbate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Potassium sorbate on a food label?
- Look for E202, Potassium sorbate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: potassium sorbate, potassium sorbdte, potdssium sorbate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.