Sodium sorbate

Sodium sorbate (CAS 7757-81-5), also known commercially as E201, is the sodium salt form of sorbic acid used as a preservative in food and personal care products. It inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, extending shelf life across a broad range of formulations. In food manufacturing, it is used to preserve baked goods and dairy products.

This additive is ideal for beverages and processed foods where pH-neutral or mildly alkaline conditions favor the sodium salt over sorbic acid itself. It ensures stability in diverse environments. Personal care formulators incorporate it into creams, lotions, and wet wipes as a preservative that performs effectively in higher-pH systems. It is also applied in wine and fruit-based products.

The compound prevents refermentation without significantly altering taste profiles. Cosmetic manufacturers sourcing alternatives to parabens increasingly evaluate it as part of preservation systems. Sodium sorbate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules. Food-grade material is available to FCC specification, ensuring high purity for industrial food applications.

Cosmetic-grade supply aligns with standard purity requirements for personal care applications. Packaging typically ranges from small retail units to bulk bags suited for industrial procurement. This versatile preservative meets the rigorous demands of global supply chains. It remains a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking reliable microbial control in sensitive formulations.