Potassium Sorbate Food-grade Beverage Preservative

Potassium sorbate, also known as 2,4-hexadienoic acid potassium, is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. Its chemical formula is C6H7O2K, and it is colorless or white flaky crystals or crystalline powder. [1] It has no odor or a slightly pungent smell. When exposed to the air for a long time, it is prone to absorbing moisture, being oxidized and decomposed, and changing color. It is highly soluble in water (58.2g/100mL at 20℃), [7] and it is soluble in propylene glycol (5.8g/100mL) and ethanol (0.3g/10mL). Potassium sorbate and sorbic acid are commonly used organic preservatives, widely used in food, cosmetics, and feed preservation. It is easily absorbed and metabolized by the human body, with no residue in the body and no toxicity.

Potassium sorbate is produced by the neutralization reaction between sorbic acid and potassium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. Besides solubility, it possesses all the basic properties of sorbic acid. Potassium sorbate is white or slightly white granules or powders. It is prone to moisture absorption and is unstable in the air. It is easily oxidized and turns brown. However, it is relatively stable to light and heat. It will melt and decompose at around 270℃. The pH value of a 1% aqueous solution is 7 to 8.
The preservative mechanism of potassium sorbate is the same as that of sorbic acid, that is, it combines with the sulfhydryl groups of microbial enzyme systems to destroy many enzyme systems, thereby achieving the purpose of inhibiting microbial reproduction. Potassium sorbate can effectively inhibit the activity of molds, aerobic bacteria, and yeast. It can also prevent the reproduction of microorganisms such as Staphylococcus, Botulinum, and Salmonella. However, it is ineffective against anaerobic spore-forming bacteria and lactic acid bacteria. Its inhibitory effect on development is stronger than its bactericidal effect, thus achieving the purpose of extending the preservation time of food while maintaining the original flavor of the food.

Chemical Name: Potassium 2,4-hexadienoate
CAS Number: 590-00-1 / 24634-61-5
Molecular Formula: C₆H₇KO₂
Appearance: White to slightly yellow crystalline particles or powder
Purity: ≥98.0%
pH Value: 7.0 - 8.5 (1% aqueous solution)
Solubility: Easily soluble in water (67g/100mL, 20℃), slightly soluble in ethanol
Shelf Life: 24 months (sealed, protected from light, stored in a cool and dry place)

✅ Highly effective antibacterial: Broad-spectrum inhibition of molds and yeasts, extending the shelf life of food by 2-4 times.
✅ Safe and harmless: Metabolites are CO₂ and water, non-carcinogenic, LD₅₀ (oral administration in rats) > 4920mg/kg.
✅ Compatible: Applicable pH range is wide (2.5 - 6.5), does not affect the flavor and color of food.
✅ Dual certification: Food grade (GB), pharmaceutical grade (USP-NF) available, Halal/Kosher certification supported.
✅ Flexible application: Supports solution preparation, direct powder injection, suitable for automated production lines.

Food preservation
Bakery products: Bread, cakes - prevent mold growth and extend soft texture
Dairy products: Yogurt, cheese - inhibit yeast fermentation
Drinks: Juice, carbonated beverages - keep at room temperature for preservation
Seasonings: Soy sauce, sauces - prevent the formation of white spots
Pre-prepared foods: Ready-to-eat foods - preserve and extend shelf life

Non-food fields
Cosmetics: Lotion, cream - inhibit microbial growth
Medicine: Oral liquid, syrup - preserve
Pet food: Dry food, canned food - prevent spoilage

Packaging Specifications:
Powder: 25kg per box (aluminum foil composite bag, with moisture-proof film inside)
Storage Conditions: Avoid light exposure, keep sealed, relative humidity < 70%, temperature < 30℃

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