Sorbic acid

Functions
Preservative
Preservative booster
Fragrance
CAS Number(s)
110-44-1
EINECS number(s)
203-768-7
FDA UNII
X045WJ989B

Sorbic acid, a six-carbon unsaturated (2,4-hexadienoic acid) fatty acid, is a white, free-flowing crystalline powder with a slight characteristic odor. It is a food-grade preservative and mold inhibitor, slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in ethanol and ether.

Sorbic acid is classified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a generally recognized safe (GRAS) food ingredient and is metabolized by the human body in the same way as other fatty acids. So, it is a safe and well-tested preservative for personal care products used for more than 25 years as a microbial growth inhibitor. It is effective against molds, yeasts, and many bacteria.

Sorbic acid and its potassium and sodium salts are useful in a wide pH range of 2.5-7.0 for prolonged periods of time. It works well in combination with other preservatives, allowing deduct entire concentrations. Combination with citric acid prevents sorbic acid oxidation and color changes in personal care products.

Synonyms
Hexa-2,4-dienoic acid
Sorbic Acid
Acidum Sorbicum

Ingredient products

Travel Set Tissue Activator
MBR® Medical Beauty Research
BUBBLE FALLS
Valmont
Face Cream
MSB® Cosmeceuticals

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