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Potassium Sorbate

PubChem CID
23676745
Structure
Potassium Sorbate_small.png
Potassium Sorbate_3D_Structure.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • POTASSIUM SORBATE
  • 24634-61-5
  • Sorbistat potassium
  • Sorbistat-K
  • Potassium (E,E)-sorbate
Molecular Weight
150.22 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2008-02-05
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Potassium sorbate is a potassium salt having sorbate as the counterion. It has a role as an antimicrobial food preservative. It contains an (E,E)-sorbate.
Mold and yeast inhibitor. Used as a fungistatic agent for foods, especially cheeses.

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Potassium Sorbate.png

1.2 3D Conformer

3D Conformer of Parent

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

potassium;(2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C6H8O2.K/c1-2-3-4-5-6(7)8;/h2-5H,1H3,(H,7,8);/q;+1/p-1/b3-2+,5-4+;
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

CHHHXKFHOYLYRE-STWYSWDKSA-M
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

C/C=C/C=C/C(=O)[O-].[K+]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C6H7O2K
C6H7KO2
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

24634-61-5
590-00-1

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

16577-94-9

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

246-376-1

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 ChEBI ID

2.3.6 ChEMBL ID

2.3.7 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.8 FEMA Number

2.3.9 HMDB ID

2.3.10 KEGG ID

2.3.11 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.12 Nikkaji Number

2.3.13 RXCUI

2.3.14 Wikidata

2.3.15 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Acid, Hexadienoic
  • Acid, Propenylacrylic
  • Acid, Sorbic
  • Hexadienoic Acid
  • Potassium Sorbate
  • Propenylacrylic Acid
  • Sodium Sorbate
  • Sorbate, Potassium
  • Sorbate, Sodium
  • Sorbic Acid

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
150.22 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
150.00831095 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
150.00831095 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
40.1 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
9
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
127
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
2
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Dry Powder; Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals
Dry Powder
White crystalline powder showing no change in colour after heating for 90 minutes at 105 °C
White solid; [HSDB]

3.2.2 Color / Form

White powder
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1127
Crystals
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1614
White crystals or powder
Osol, A. and J.E. Hoover, et al. (eds.). Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences. 15th ed. Easton, Pennsylvania: Mack Publishing Co., 1975., p. 1222

3.2.3 Odor

Characteristic odor
Osol, A. and J.E. Hoover, et al. (eds.). Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences. 15th ed. Easton, Pennsylvania: Mack Publishing Co., 1975., p. 1222

3.2.4 Melting Point

for sorbic acidMelting range of sorbic acid isolated by acidification and not recrystallised 133 °C to 135 °C after vacuum drying in a sulphuric acid desiccator
>270 °C (decomposes)
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-462

3.2.5 Solubility

Solubility in water at 20 °C: 58.2%; in alcohol: 6.5%
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1613
Very soluble in water
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-462
Soluble in water at 25 °C
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1127
58.5 g in 100 cc water at 25 °C
Weast, R.C. (ed.). Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 60th ed. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press Inc., 1979., p. B-114
For more Solubility (Complete) data for POTASSIUM SORBATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.2.6 Density

1.363 at 25 °C/20 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1613

3.2.7 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of K2O.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3043

3.2.8 Other Experimental Properties

Crystalline solid; odorless. Density: 1.36 at 23.5 °C; VP: 0.001 PA at 20 °C; Water solubility: 1.95-543 g/L at 20 °C and pH 4-7; solubility in methanol: 78.2-80.1 mg/L; Surface Tension: 72.6 mN/m at 1 g/L and 20 °C; Dissociation constant: 4.69 at 20 °C; Dissipation half-life (phototransformation in air): 5.16-5.232 hours
ECHA; Search for Chemicals. Name (24634-61-5) Registered Substances Dossier. European Chemical Agency. Available from, as of Nov 4, 2016: https://echa.europa.eu/

3.3 Chemical Classes

Other Uses -> Preservatives

3.3.1 Cosmetics

Cosmetic ingredients (Potassium Sorbate) -> CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)

3.3.2 Food Additives

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, ANTIOXIDANT, COLOR OR COLORING ADJUNCT, FLAVOR ENHANCER, FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT, NUTRIENT SUPPLEMENT, PH CONTROL AGENT -> FDA Substance added to food

3.3.3 Fragrances

Fragrance Ingredient (2,​4-​Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1)​, (2E,​4E)​-) -> IFRA transparency List

3.3.4 Pesticides

Fungicides
Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Not approved

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Varian A-60
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Source of Spectrum
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Source of Sample
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Catalog Number
359769
Copyright
Copyright © 2021-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.1.2 13C NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Source of Sample
Fluka AG, Buchs, Switzerland
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 2
Source of Spectrum
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Source of Sample
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Catalog Number
359769
Copyright
Copyright © 2021-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2 Mass Spectrometry

4.2.1 LC-MS

1 of 3
View All
MS Category
Experimental
MS Type
LC-MS
MS Level
MS2
Precursor Type
[M+H]+
Precursor m/z
113.060864766439
Instrument
Agilent QTOF 6550
Instrument Type
LC-ESI-QTOF
Ionization Mode
positive
Collision Energy
20
Top 5 Peaks

67.0548 100

41.0383 89.52

65.0381 59.66

45.033 29.34

39.0218 28.55

Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 3
View All
MS Category
Experimental
MS Type
LC-MS
MS Level
MS2
Precursor Type
[M+H]+
Precursor m/z
113.060864766439
Instrument
Agilent QTOF 6550
Instrument Type
LC-ESI-QTOF
Ionization Mode
positive
Collision Energy
10
Top 5 Peaks

67.0547 100

95.0491 97.24

57.0331 46.68

43.0163 25.51

113.0607 24.31

Thumbnail
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4.2.2 Other MS

MS Category
Experimental
MS Type
Other
MS Level
MS2
Precursor Type
[M+H]+
Precursor m/z
113.06
Instrument
qTof
Ionization Mode
positive
Top 5 Peaks

67.056587 100

65.040916 61.24

95.049278 39.91

71.930107 25.69

71.932510 18.81

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4.3 UV Spectra

4.3.1 UV-VIS Spectra

Copyright
Copyright © 2008-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail

4.4 IR Spectra

4.4.1 FTIR Spectra

1 of 2
Technique
KBr WAFER
Source of Sample
Fluka Chemie AG, Buchs, Switzerland
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 2
Technique
KBr WAFER
Source of Sample
Tanower, Inc.
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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4.4.2 ATR-IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS
Technique
ATR-Neat (DuraSamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Source of Sample
Supelco, Sigma-Aldrich Inc.
Catalog Number
47848
Lot Number
LB62487
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 2
Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS
Technique
ATR-Neat (DuraSamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Source of Sample
McArthur Chemical Company, Ltd.
Copyright
Copyright © 2012-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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4.5 Other Spectra

SADTLER REFERENCE NUMBER: 32038 (IR, PRISM); 9037 (IR, GRATING)
Weast, R.C. (ed.). Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 60th ed. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press Inc., 1979., p. B-114

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 FDA National Drug Code Directory

7.2 Drug Labels

Active ingredient and drug

7.3 Therapeutic Uses

One hundred and twenty-two cases of vaginal fungal infections treated with potassium sorbate are presented. A new method of follow-up home application by means of vaginal tampons is tried. Relief of symptoms is prompt, and yeast organism disappear; the safety and superior efficacy of a strengthened (3%) solution is established. Treatment of fungal infections in males is also discussed.
McKinnon DA, Rodgerson EB; Obstet Gynecol 45 (1): 108-10 (1975)

8 Food Additives and Ingredients

8.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE;

8.2 FDA Substances Added to Food

Used for (Technical Effect)
ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, ANTIOXIDANT, COLOR OR COLORING ADJUNCT, FLAVOR ENHANCER, FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT, NUTRIENT SUPPLEMENT, PH CONTROL AGENT
FEMA Number
2921
GRAS Number
3

8.3 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
POTASSIUM SORBATE
Evaluation Year
1973
ADI
0-25 mg/kg bw
Comments
Group ADI as the sum of sorbic acid and calcium, potassium and sodium sorbates (expressed as sorbic acid)

9 Agrochemical Information

9.1 Agrochemical Category

Pesticide active substances -> Fungicides

9.2 EU Pesticides Data

Active Substance
potassium sorbate
Status
Not approved [Reg. (EC) No 1107/2009]
Legislation
2004/129/EC, Reg. (EU) 2017/2068

10 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

10.1 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Food Preservatives
Substances capable of inhibiting, retarding or arresting the process of fermentation, acidification or other deterioration of foods. (See all compounds classified as Food Preservatives.)

10.2 Metabolism / Metabolites

The results of metabolic studies were that sorbic acid was qualitatively metabolized in the same manner as the saturated or singly unsaturated fatty acids of the same C-atom number. Under normal conditions, sorbic acid was almost completely oxidized to carbon dioxide and water. /Sorbic acid/
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)

11 Use and Manufacturing

11.1 Uses

Cosmetic Ingredient Review Link
CIR ingredient: Potassium Sorbate
EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Used as mold and yeast inhibitor and preservative/antioxidant for food; [HSDB]
For potassiuim sorbate (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 075902) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
National Pesticide Information Retrieval System's Database on Potassium Sorbate (590-00-1). Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/

Reported uses (ppm):

Table: Reported uses (ppm): (Flavor and Extract Manufacturers' Association, 1994)

Food Category
Alcoholic beverages
Usual
0.21
Max.
0.26
Food Category
Baked goods
Usual
0.63
Max.
0.72
Food Category
Cheese
Usual
1.52
Max.
2.03
Food Category
Condiments, relishes
Usual
0.30
Max.
0.55
Food Category
Confection, frosting
Usual
0.83
Max.
0.83
Food Category
Fats, oils
Usual
1.36
Max.
1.44
Food Category
Fish products
Usual
0.43
Max.
0.43
Food Category
Frozen dairy
Usual
0.05
Max.
0.10
Food Category
Fruit ices
Usual
0.65
Max.
0.70
Food Category
Fruit juice
Usual
0.58
Max.
1.02
Food Category
Gelatins, puddings
Usual
5.80
Max.
5.84
Food Category
Gravies
Usual
0.49
Max.
0.64
Food Category
Imitation dairy
Usual
0.65
Max.
0.75
Food Category
James, jellies
Usual
0.59
Max.
0.95
Food Category
Milk products
Usual
0.20
Max.
0.49
Food Category
Nonalcoholic beverages
Usual
0.16
Max.
0.36
Food Category
Processed vegetables
Usual
0.51
Max.
0.84
Food Category
Snack foods
Usual
0.30
Max.
0.80
Food Category
Soft candy
Usual
0.54
Max.
0.58
Food Category
Sweet sauce
Usual
0.56
Max.
0.67

Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 6th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1720
Bacteriostat and preservative in meats, sausage casings, wine, etc.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1127
Preservative and antimicrobial agent for foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. To improve the characteristics of drying oils. In alkyd type coatings to improve gloss. To improve milling characteristics of cold rubber. /Sorbic acid/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1613
MEDICATION

11.1.1 Use Classification

EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Preservatives and Antioxidants
Safer Chemical Classes -> Green circle Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern
Food additives
Fragrance Ingredients
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE; -> JECFA Functional Classes

11.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Other (specify)
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Preservative

11.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Stabilizing agent
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Other (specify)
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Preservative
Preservative

11.1.4 Household Products

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 39 consumer products that contain Potassium Sorbate [USAN] in the following categories is provided:

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

• Pet Care

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 241 consumer products that contain Potassium sorbate in the following categories is provided:

• Commercial / Institutional

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

• Pet Care

11.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Preparation: O. Probst, H. Oehme, United States of America patent 3173948 (1965 to Hoechst).
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 8848
Sorbic acid is reacted with an equimolar portion of KOH. The resulting potassium sorbate may be crystallized from aqueous ethanol.
Troy, D.B. (Ed); Remmington The Science and Practice of Pharmacy. 21 st Edition. Lippincott Williams & Williams, Philadelphia, PA 2005, p. 1059

11.3 Formulations / Preparations

It is sold commercially as a white powder and in granulated form.
Luck E et al; Sorbic Acid. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2016). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: October 15, 2011
Grades: Technical, FCC /Food Chemical Codex/
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1127

11.4 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2018: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2017: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2016: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 212,981 lb

2018: 341,981 lb

2017: 171,974 lb

2016: 126,000 lb

Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) information on the production and use of chemicals manufactured or imported into the United States. Chemical: 2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt. National Production Volume: 100,000 - 500,000 lb/yr.
USEPA/Pollution Prevention and Toxics; 2012 Chemical Data Reporting Database. 2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (590-00-1). Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://java.epa.gov/oppt_chemical_search/

11.5 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Textiles, apparel, and leather manufacturing
  • Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing
  • Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
Industry Processing Sectors
Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1): ACTIVE
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1), (2E,4E)-: ACTIVE
Because of their physiological inertness, their effectiveness even in the weakly acid pH range and their neutral taste, sorbic acid and its salts have become the leading preservatives in the food sector throughout the world over the past 30 years. The most commonly used products are sorbic acid itself (E200) and potassium sorbate (E202). In many countries sodium sorbate (E201) and calcium sorbate (E203) are also permitted. Sorbic acid is sparingly soluble in water, sodium sorbate has better solubility, and potassium sorbate is very freely soluble and can be used to produce 50% stock solutions. The soluble sorbates are preferred when it is desired to use the preservative in liquid form, or when aqueous systems are to be preserved. Sodium sorbate in solid form is unstable and very rapidly undergoes oxidation on exposure to atmospheric oxygen. It is therefore not produced on the industrial scale. Aqueous solutions of sodium sorbate remain stable for some time. Calcium sorbate is used in the manufacture of fungistatic wrappers because it is highly stable to oxidation, but this use is very limited. Sorbic acid and sorbates can be directly added into the product. The products can be dipped or sprayed with aqueous solutions of sorbates. Dusting of food with dry sorbic acid is also possible but less recommended because sorbic acid irritates the skin and mucous membranes. Sorbic acid and particularly calcium sorbate can be used as active substances in fungistatic wrappers.
Luck E et al; Food Addit Contam 7 (5): 711-5 (1990)
Classified as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS)
Luck E et al; Sorbic Acid. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2017). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Oct 2011

12 Identification

12.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

Titrimetric method for sorbates in foods. /Sorbates/
Furia, T.E. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Food Additives. 2nd ed. Cleveland: The Chemical Rubber Co., 1972., p. 137
Colorimetric procedure for sorbates in food. /Sorbates/
Furia, T.E. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Food Additives. 2nd ed. Cleveland: The Chemical Rubber Co., 1972., p. 137
Single-extraction UV spectrophotometric method. /Sorbates/
Furia, T.E. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Food Additives. 2nd ed. Cleveland: The Chemical Rubber Co., 1972., p. 137
Ultraviolet or colorimetric procedures used to analyze potassium sorbate in dried prunes.
Staafford AE; J Agric Food Chem 24(4) 894 (1976)
For more Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete) data for POTASSIUM SORBATE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13 Safety and Hazards

13.1 Hazards Identification

13.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 5
View All
Note
Pictograms displayed are for 94.7% (1608 of 1698) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 5.3% (90 of 1698) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Irritant
Signal
Warning
GHS Hazard Statements

H315 (63.4%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (94.2%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (33.2%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P280, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P321, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1698 reports by companies from 19 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 90 of 1698 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 18 notifications provided by 1608 of 1698 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

13.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Skin Irrit. 2 (63.4%)

Eye Irrit. 2 (94.2%)

STOT SE 3 (33.2%)

Skin Irrit. 2 (47.9%)

Eye Irrit. 2 (56.8%)

STOT SE 3 (10.8%)

13.1.3 EPA Safer Chemical

Chemical: Potassium (E,E)-sorbate

Green circle Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern based on experimental and modeled data.

Chemical: Potassium sorbate

Green circle Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern based on experimental and modeled data.

13.1.4 Hazards Summary

An eye irritant; Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods; [HSDB] Oral LD50 (rat) = 4340 mg/kg; [ChemIDplus] May cause irritation; [MSDSonline]

13.2 Fire Fighting

13.2.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Advice for firefighters: Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.3 Accidental Release Measures

13.3.1 Cleanup Methods

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.3.2 Disposal Methods

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

13.3.3 Preventive Measures

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed. Normal measures for preventive fire protection.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Appropriate engineering controls: Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.4 Handling and Storage

13.4.1 Storage Conditions

Store in cool place. Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
...Potassium sorbate should be stored @ temp below 100 °F & should not be exposed to light or heat. Containers should be kept closed.
Furia, T.E. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Food Additives. 2nd ed. Cleveland: The Chemical Rubber Co., 1972., p. 137

13.5 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

13.5.1 Allowable Tolerances

An exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is established for residues of potassium sorbate.
40 CFR 180.1233 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.5.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Eye/face protection: Safety glasses with side-shields conforming to EN166. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Body Protection: Impervious clothing. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html
Respiratory protection: For nuisance exposures use type P95 (US) or type P1 (EU EN 143) particle respirator. For higher level protection use type OV/AG/P99 (US) or type ABEK-P2 (EU EN 143) respirator cartridges. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.6 Stability and Reactivity

13.6.1 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.7 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: 2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1), (2E,4E)-
Status Regulation (EC)
2004/129/EC, Reg. (EU) 2017/2068
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Potassium sorbate: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

13.7.1 FIFRA Requirements

An exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is established for residues of potassium sorbate.
40 CFR 180.1233 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.7.2 FDA Requirements

Potassium sorbate used as a chemical preservative in food for human consumption is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice.
21 CFR 182.3640 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov
Potassium sorbate used as a chemical preservative in animal drugs, feeds, and related products is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing or feeding practice.
21 CFR 582.3640 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov
Substances migrating to food from paper and paperboard products used in food packaging that are generally recognized as safe for their intended use, within section 409 of the Act. Potassium sorbate is included on this list.
21 CFR 182.90 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of October 27, 2016: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.8 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - 2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt, (E,E)-: Human health tier I assessment

IMAP assessments - 2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt, (E,E)-: Environment tier I assessment

13.8.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: Carbon oxides, potassium oxides.
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Potassium sorbate. Available from, as of January 24, 2017: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/590-00-1.html

13.8.2 Special Reports

Cosmetic Ingredient Review; Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate. J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
Food & Drug Research Labs Inc; Scientific Literature Reviews on Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Food Ingredients: Sorbic Acid Derivatives; US NTIS PB Report PBb-223 864: 92 pp (1973).
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; Annual Review of Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Assessments: 2005/2006. International Journal of Toxicology, 27(Suppl. 1): 77-142 (2008)

14 Toxicity

14.1 Toxicological Information

14.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Potassium sorbate forms white crystals or powder with characteristic odor. It is used as preservative and antimicrobial agent for foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It has been also used as medication. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: Formulations containing up to 0.5% sorbic acid and/or potassium sorbate were not significant primary or cumulative irritants and not sensitizers at this test concentration. In humans, a few cases of idiosyncratic intolerances have been reported (non-immunological contact urticaria and pseudo-allergy). ANIMAL STUDIES: Potassium sorbate was practically nontoxic to rats and mice in acute oral toxicity studies. Potassium sorbate at concentrations up to 10% was practically nonirritating to the rabbit's eye. Potassium sorbate have been tested for mutagenic effects using the Ames test, genetic recombination tests, reversion assays, rec assays, tests for chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges, and gene mutations. Results have been both positive and negative. Potassium sorbate at 0.1% in the diet or 0.3% in drinking water of rats for up to 100 weeks produced no neoplasms. No teratogenic effects have been observed in pregnant mice and rats administered potassium sorbate.

14.1.2 Acute Effects

14.1.3 Interactions

The food additives sodium nitrite and potassium sorbate had cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on in vitro cultured V79 hamster cells and EUE human fibroblasts if administered in an acid environment (pH 4.95). The strong cytotoxic effect of sodium nitrite and that of the combined action of sodium nitrite and potassium sorbate was observed along the inhibition of macromolecular synthesis. In this respect, potassium sorbate was less effective. The decreased plating efficiency of the cells and the inhibition of de novo DNA synthesis induced by these substances aroused the question whether they also have genotoxic effects on V79 cells. Statistical analyses showed that sodium nitrite induced more 6-TG-resistant (6-TGr) mutants as compared to the untreated control. However, this elevation did not correspond to the level of inhibition of DNA synthesis determined during the followed period of time after the removal of the substance. Potassium sorbate and a combination thereof with sodium nitrite, in our experiments, had no mutagenic effects.
Budayova E; Neoplasma 32 (3): 341-50 (1985)
Although potassium sorbate (PS), ascorbic acid and ferric or ferrous salts (Fe-salts) are used widely in combination as food additives, the strong reactivity of PS and oxidative potency of ascorbic acid in the presence of Fe-salts might form toxic compounds in food during its deposit and distribution. In the present paper, the reaction mixture of PS, ascorbic acid and Fe-salts was evaluated for mutagenicity and DNA-damaging activity by means of the Ames test and rec-assay. Effective lethality was observed in the rec-assay. No mutagenicity was induced in either Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 (with or without S-9 mix) or TA100 (with S-9 mix). In contrast, a dose-dependent mutagenic effect was obtained when applied to strain TA100 without S-9 mix. The mutagenic activity became stronger increasing with the reaction period. Furthermore, the reaction products obtained in a nitrogen atmosphere did not show any mutagenic and DNA-damaging activity. PS, ascorbic acid and Fe-salts were inactive when they were used separately. Omission of one component from the mixture of PS, ascorbic acid and Fe-salt turned the reaction system inactive. These results demonstrate that ascorbic acid and Fe-salt oxidized PS and the oxidative products caused mutagenicity and DNA-damaging activity.
Kitano K et al; Food Chem Toxicol 40 (11): 1589-9 (2002)

14.1.4 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160
/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160
/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160-1

14.1.5 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ In three repeat insult patch tests using a total of 478 subjects, sorbic acid had overall sensitization rates of 0, 0.33, and 0.8%. All the subjects sensitized were inducted with 20% sorbic acid and challenged with 5% sorbic acid. Formulations containing up to 0.5% sorbic acid or 0.15% potassium sorbate were not cumulative irritants or were very mild cumulative irritants. They were not primary irritants and were not sensitizers.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ An RIPT was conducted using 56 panelists and a facial scrub containing 0.1% potassium sorbate. The formulation was diluted 1 :I00 by weight with distilled water for the study. Eight 24 hr semiocclusive induction patches were applied over a 2 week period to the lateral upper arm of each subject. Reactions were scored at patch removal. After an approximately 2 week rest period, a 24 hr semiocclusive challenge patch was applied to a previously untreated site. Reactions to the challenge patch were graded at patch removal and 24 and 48 hr later. Two slight, transient, questionable erythema reactions were observed during induction. No other reactions were observed during induction or challenge. The facial scrub did not induce dermal irritation or sensitization.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ The skin irritation and sensitization potential of a facial scrub containing 0.1% potassium sorbate was evaluated in an RIPT with 47 panelists. The formulation was diluted 1 :I00 in distilled water. Eight 24 hr semiocclusive induction patches were applied to the lateral aspect of the upper arms of the subjects over a 2 week period, and reactions were scored on a scale of O-5 at patch removal. After a 2 week rest period, a 24 hr semiocclusive challenge patch was applied, and reactions were scored at patch removal and 24 and 48 hr later. No reactions greater than 2 (moderate erythema) were observed during the induction period, and no reactions at challenge were indicative of sensitization.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
/CASE REPORTS/ Occupational contact dermatitis from potassium sorbate in milk transformation plant /described/.
Le Coz CJ, Abensour M; Contact Dermatitis 53 (3): 176-7 (2005)
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for POTASSIUM SORBATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.6 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Sorbic acid (in petrolatum) and potassium sorbate (as aqueous solution) at concentrations of 1, 5, and 10% were practically nonirritating and nonirritating, respectively, to the rabbit eye. Formulations containing 0.1% sorbic acid or 0.15% potassium sorbate were nonirritating to the rabbit eye.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ A 1% aqueous potassium sorbate solution was practically nonirritating to rabbit skin.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ The preservatives benzalkonium chloride (BZC) and potassium sorbate (PS) are widely used, not only for nasal drops, but also for eyedrops and cosmetics. However, there have been many case reports that consider lesions such as dermatitis or conjunctivitis to be the results of irritation induced by BZC or PS. We evaluated the histological changes after the long-term administration of BZC or PS on rat nasal respiratory mucosa. Forty rats were used for the BZC group and 40 rats for PS group. Animals in each group were divided into four subgroups The first subgroup received a low-concentration preservative solution that was commonly used for nasal sprays. The second subgroup received a high-concentration preservative solution that was reported to induce dermatitis in humans. The third and fourth subgroups received a steroid mixed preservative solution of low and high concentrations, respectively. The control group was administrated normal saline. After each group received 1, 2, and 4 weeks of topical administration, the symptomatic and histological changes on hemotoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain were observed. Sneezing and nasal rubbing with forelegs were observed in almost all subgroups by the seventh day of treatment. The preservatives induced nasal lesions, including intraepithelial glandular formation, inflammatory cell infiltration, vascular hyperplasia, and edematous change. The symptomatic and histological changes were pronounced with the prolonged duration of administration. Similar results were observed in the steroid mixed-solution groups. In the PS steroid mixed-solution group, however, symptoms and nasal lesions were reduced with the prolonged duration of administration. It is our finding that even a low-concentration solution of preservative can lead to nasal lesion. Hence there is a strong need to develop both a preservative that can be safely and widely used and a nasal spray without preservatives.
Cho JH et al; Laryngoscope 110 (2 Pt 1): 312-7 (2000)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ The oral administration of potassium sorbate as 0.1% of the diet or 0.3% of the drinking water for up to 100 weeks produced no neoplasms in rats. No carcinogenic effect was demonstrated by sorbic acid in rats or mice fed diets containing up to 10% sorbic acid for periods of 2 years and 80 weeks, respectively. A diet containing up to 15% sorbic acid has been reported to have a carcinogenic effect in the liver of mice after 88 weeks' administration.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for POTASSIUM SORBATE (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.7 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rats oral 4920 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3043
LD50 Mice ip 1300 mg/kg
Cosmetic Ingredient Review; J Am Col Toxicol 7 (6): 837-80 (1988)

14.2 Ecological Information

14.2.1 Artificial Pollution Sources

Potassium sorbate's production and use as a bacteriostat and preservative in meats, sausage casings, wine(1) and cosmetics(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).
(1) Larranaga MD et al; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 16th ed., Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. p. 1127 (2016)
(2) Personal Care Products Council; CosmeticsINFO.org. Washington, DC. Available from, as of Nov 4, 2016: https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org

14.2.2 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

The stability of potassium sorbate is strongly dependent on its water content, which must be kept below 0.5%. At room temperature about 140 g of potassium sorbate can be dissolved in 100 mL of water. ... Potassium sorbate is resistant to air oxidation ... although the stability in the solid state depends on purity.
Luck E et al; Sorbic Acid. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2017). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Oct 2011

14.2.3 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

According to the 2012 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 23 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of potassium sorbate in the United States may be considered as confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).
(1) US EPA; Chemical Data Reporting (CDR). Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting information on chemical production and use in the United States. Available from, as of Nov 4, 2016: https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting

15 Literature

15.1 Consolidated References

15.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

15.3 Springer Nature References

15.4 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.6 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

16 Patents

16.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

16.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

16.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

17 Biological Test Results

17.1 BioAssay Results

18 Classification

18.1 MeSH Tree

18.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

18.3 ChEBI Ontology

18.4 EPA Safer Choice

18.5 ChemIDplus

18.6 UN GHS Classification

18.7 EPA CPDat Classification

18.8 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

18.9 EPA DSSTox Classification

18.10 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

18.11 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

18.12 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

19 Information Sources

  1. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)
    2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1), (2E,4E)-
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-assessments/
    2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1), (2E,4E)-
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-inventory/
  2. ChemIDplus
    ChemIDplus Chemical Information Classification
    https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/source/ChemIDplus
  3. EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
    LICENSE
    The U.S. Government retains a nonexclusive, royalty-free license to publish or reproduce these documents, or allow others to do so, for U.S. Government purposes. These documents may be freely distributed and used for non-commercial, scientific and educational purposes.
    https://www.epa.gov/web-policies-and-procedures/epa-disclaimers#copyright
    2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1), (2E,4E)-
    https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting
  4. EPA Chemicals under the TSCA
    2,4-Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1)
    https://www.epa.gov/chemicals-under-tsca
    EPA TSCA Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/tsca-inventory
  5. EPA DSSTox
    Potassium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/DTXSID7027835
    CompTox Chemicals Dashboard Chemical Lists
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/
  6. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
    LICENSE
    Use of the information, documents and data from the ECHA website is subject to the terms and conditions of this Legal Notice, and subject to other binding limitations provided for under applicable law, the information, documents and data made available on the ECHA website may be reproduced, distributed and/or used, totally or in part, for non-commercial purposes provided that ECHA is acknowledged as the source: "Source: European Chemicals Agency, http://echa.europa.eu/". Such acknowledgement must be included in each copy of the material. ECHA permits and encourages organisations and individuals to create links to the ECHA website under the following cumulative conditions: Links can only be made to webpages that provide a link to the Legal Notice page.
    https://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/legal-notice
    Potassium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
    https://chem.echa.europa.eu/100.042.145
  7. FDA Global Substance Registration System (GSRS)
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  8. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  9. International Fragrance Association (IFRA)
    LICENSE
    (c) The International Fragrance Association, 2007-2021. All rights reserved.
    https://ifrafragrance.org/links/copyright
    2,​4-​Hexadienoic acid, potassium salt (1:1)​, (2E,​4E)​-
    https://ifrafragrance.org/priorities/ingredients/ifra-transparency-list
  10. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
    LICENSE
    This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International licence.
    https://www.epa.govt.nz/about-this-site/general-copyright-statement/
  11. EU Pesticides Database
  12. ChEBI
  13. ChEMBL
    LICENSE
    Access to the web interface of ChEMBL is made under the EBI's Terms of Use (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html). The ChEMBL data is made available on a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/).
    http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html
  14. Consumer Product Information Database (CPID)
    LICENSE
    Copyright (c) 2024 DeLima Associates. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials from CPID are copyrighted by DeLima Associates. No part of these materials, either text or image may be used for any purpose other than for personal use. Therefore, reproduction, modification, storage in a retrieval system or retransmission, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, for reasons other than personal use, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/contents/view/1/6
    Consumer Products Category Classification
    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/
  15. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
  16. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  17. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
    LICENSE
    Copyright (c) 2022 Haz-Map(R). All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials from Haz-Map are copyrighted by Haz-Map(R). No part of these materials, either text or image may be used for any purpose other than for personal use. Therefore, reproduction, modification, storage in a retrieval system or retransmission, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, for reasons other than personal use, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    https://haz-map.com/About
  18. DailyMed
  19. EU Food Improvement Agents
  20. EPA Safer Choice
    EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
  21. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)
    LICENSE
    Permission from WHO is not required for the use of WHO materials issued under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Intergovernmental Organization (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO) licence.
    https://www.who.int/about/policies/publishing/copyright
  22. Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS), Safe Work Australia
  23. Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council
    LICENSE
    The copyright for the editorial content of this source, the summaries of EU legislation and the consolidated texts, which is owned by the EU, is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence.
    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/content/legal-notice/legal-notice.html
    potassium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1272/oj
  24. FDA Substances Added to Food
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  25. Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA)
  26. Human Metabolome Database (HMDB)
    LICENSE
    HMDB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (HMDB) and the original publication (see the HMDB citing page). We ask that users who download significant portions of the database cite the HMDB paper in any resulting publications.
    http://www.hmdb.ca/citing
  27. Japan Chemical Substance Dictionary (Nikkaji)
  28. KEGG
    LICENSE
    Academic users may freely use the KEGG website. Non-academic use of KEGG generally requires a commercial license
    https://www.kegg.jp/kegg/legal.html
  29. MassBank of North America (MoNA)
    LICENSE
    The content of the MoNA database is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
    https://mona.fiehnlab.ucdavis.edu/documentation/license
  30. National Drug Code (NDC) Directory
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  31. NCI Thesaurus (NCIt)
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise indicated, all text within NCI products is free of copyright and may be reused without our permission. Credit the National Cancer Institute as the source.
    https://www.cancer.gov/policies/copyright-reuse
  32. NLM RxNorm Terminology
    LICENSE
    The RxNorm Terminology is created by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and is in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from NLM. Credit to the U.S. National Library of Medicine as the source is appreciated but not required. The full RxNorm dataset requires a free license.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/umls/rxnorm/docs/termsofservice.html
  33. SpectraBase
    trans,trans-2,4-Hexadienoic acid potassium salt
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/AK1Gwr9q1Xp
    trans,trans-2,4-Hexadienoic acid potassium salt
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/9ov3RujpzWn
  34. Springer Nature
  35. Wikidata
  36. Wikipedia
  37. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
    LICENSE
    Works produced by the U.S. government are not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any such works found on National Library of Medicine (NLM) Web sites may be freely used or reproduced without permission in the U.S.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/copyright.html
  38. PubChem
  39. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  40. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
    LICENSE
    Data: CC-BY 4.0; Code (hosted by ECI, LCSB): Artistic-2.0
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
    https://www.norman-network.com/nds/SLE/
  41. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  42. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
CONTENTS