
Potassium Sorbate FCC
Potassium Sorbate FCC (Food Chemical Codex) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a white crystalline powder widely used as a food preservative. It effectively inhibits the growth of molds, yeasts, and some bacteria, thus extending the shelf life of various food and beverage products. Known for its low toxicity and minimal impact on flavor, Potassium Sorbate is a preferred preservative in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
Primary Uses
Food Industry
Used as a preservative in baked goods, dairy products, beverages, and processed fruits to prevent spoilage by molds and yeasts.
Employed in cheese, wine, and fruit juices to extend shelf life and maintain product quality.
Acts as a mold inhibitor in dried fruits and confectionery.
Beverage Industry
Added to soft drinks, fruit juices, and alcoholic beverages to prevent fermentation and microbial growth.
Pharmaceuticals
Utilized as a preservative in liquid medications and topical formulations to enhance stability and shelf life.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Used as a preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, and other personal care products to prevent microbial contamination.
Secondary Uses
Animal Feed
Included in animal feed formulations to inhibit mold growth and improve feed quality.
Wine and Brewing Industry
Used to inhibit unwanted microbial growth during fermentation and storage.
Industrial Applications
Acts as a preservative in adhesives and other industrial products requiring microbial stability.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate
Common/Trade Name: Potassium Sorbate FCC
CAS Number: 24634-61-5
HS Code: 2916.29
Synonyms: Potassium 2,4-hexadienoate; E202
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: White crystalline powder
Color & Odor: White; odorless or slight characteristic odor
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; insoluble in oils and fats
Melting Point: 270–273°C (decomposes)
Density: ~1.44 g/cm³
Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous; may cause mild irritation
Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits; standard hygiene practices recommended
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers
Container Type: Sealed plastic or paper bags, drums
Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Use gloves and dust mask to avoid prolonged skin contact and inhalation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Approved food additive by FDA, EFSA, and other international bodies
Complies with FCC, USP, and other pharmacopeial standards
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms at typical use levels
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, and dust mask recommended during handling
- Handling Guidelines: Avoid dust generation; use in well-ventilated areas
- Storage Measures: Keep container tightly closed and away from incompatible substances
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large amounts ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ extinguishers
- Special Precautions: None specific to potassium sorbate
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides under fire conditions