Sorbic acid
Learn what Sorbic acid (E200) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sorbic acid?
A food additive from the preservative category, found in the fruits of the Sorbus aucuparia shrub. For industrial use, it is obtained through chemical processes. It is an effective preservative, especially against molds and yeasts, but not effective against bacteria. It is most effective at a pH 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), light alcoholic beverages, liquid tea concentrates (used in dispensers), some preserved fruit and vegetable products, low-sugar jams and jellies, olives and olive-based products, fish, crustaceans, shrimp, mollusks, emulsified and non-emulsified sauces, spices, condiments, mustard, prepared salads, desserts based on untreated dairy products, liquid egg preservation, special medical diet foods, liquid dietary supplements, and chewing gum.
Why is Sorbic acid added to food?
Sorbic acid (E200) is a preservative commonly found in: Processed cheese, frozen potatoes, bakery products.
Permitted quantity: The maximum allowable daily intake for humans from sorbic acid and its potassium and calcium salts is up to 25 mg/kg body weight. This is a small dose, which can easily be exceeded, especially with high bread consumption (500g of bread contains 1000 mg sorbates, which is the maximum dose for a person weighing 40 kg).
Is Sorbic acid safe?
Low concern
Some individuals report allergic reactions.
Is Sorbic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sorbic acid okay for kids?
Not permitted in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sorbic acid
- Processed cheese
- frozen potatoes
- bakery products
How to spot Sorbic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E200
- Sorbic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sorblc acid
- sorbie acid
- sorbic aeid
- sorbic acid
- sorbic dcid
- $orbic acid
- sorbic acld
Better alternatives
• Individuals with allergies or sensitivity to sorbic acid may experience adverse reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing. • Excessive use of sorbic acid may cause irritation of the digestive tract, such as abdominal pain, bloating, or diarrhea. • Individuals with kidney conditions should exercise caution when using this ingredient. • Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before using sorbic acid.
Also known as
- sorblc acid
- sorbie acid
- sorbic aeid
- sorbic acid
- sorbic dcid
- $orbic acid
- sorbic acld
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sorbic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E200 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sorbic acid
- Is Sorbic acid safe to eat?
- Some individuals report allergic reactions.
- Is Sorbic acid banned anywhere?
- Sorbic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sorbic acid safe for children?
- Not permitted in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sorbic acid on a food label?
- Look for E200, Sorbic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sorblc acid, sorbie acid, sorbic aeid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.