Overview
Sorbic acid (CAS 110-44-1 ), also designated E200 , is a naturally derived organic acid used commercially as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative. It inhibits the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi across food, cosmetic, and personal care formulations.
This versatile ingredient extends shelf life without significantly altering product taste or odor. In food manufacturing, it is applied to baked goods, dairy products, wines, and processed meats to control spoilage organisms and meet regulatory requirements.
Cosmetic and personal care formulators incorporate it into creams, lotions, and leave-on products as a preservative active. This is particularly useful where pH-sensitive systems limit the use of parabens or formaldehyde releasers.
At low concentrations, it contributes mild acidulant functionality in beverage and flavor systems. In these applications, it is also recognized under FEMA 3921 as an approved flavoring agent for various industrial uses.
In personal care, it is frequently paired with potassium sorbate to balance solubility and efficacy across water-based formulations. This combination ensures stability and safety in a wide range of consumer-facing products.
The material is supplied as a white crystalline powder or fine granules. Standard commercial grades include food-grade ( FCC ), USP , and BP specifications, with food-grade being the most commonly sourced for applications.
Typical purity is 99% or higher for regulated end uses. Our supply chain ensures that all batches meet the rigorous quality standards required for global distribution in the food, beverage, and cosmetic industries.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 134.5 °C |
| Boiling Point | 228 °C |
| Density | 1.204 g/cm³ @ Temp: 19 °C |
| Flash Point | 127 °C |
| Appearance | Crystalline |
| Color | White or cream-white |
| Odor | bland |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Water Solubility | 1.6 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.01 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.4600 (estimate) |
| pH | 3.3 (1.6g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| Log P | 1.32 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29161930 |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 110-44-1
- EC Number
- 203-768-7
- Mol. Weight
- 112.13
- HS Code
- 29161930
- Category
- Organic Acids