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Catalog Number | CI-SC-0553 |
Product Name | Potassium Sorbate |
CAS | 24634-61-5 |
Structure | |
Synonyms | 2,4-Potassium hexadienoic acid |
Description | Potassium salt of sorbic acid (natural fatty acid). Purity >98%. Kosher FCC grade.In water potassium sorbate releases sorbic acid which is the active agent. Widely used as preservative in foods & cosmetics. |
IUPAC Name | Potassium;(2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate |
Molecular Weight | 150.22 g/mol |
Molecular Formula | C6H7KO2 |
Canonical SMILES | CC=CC=CC(=O)[O-].[K+] |
InChI | InChI=1S/C6H8O2.K/c1-2-3-4-5-6(7)8;/h2-5H,1H3,(H,7,8);/q;+1/p-1/b3-2+,5-4+; |
InChI Key | CHHHXKFHOYLYRE-STWYSWDKSA-M |
Boiling Point | 233 °C/760 mmHg |
Melting Point | 270 °C |
Flash Point | 139.9 °C |
Purity | 99% |
Density | 1.361 g/mL |
Solubility | Very soluble in water |
Appearance | Powder |
Application | All kinds of cosmetic products like creams, lotions, shampoos, makeup & sunscreen products. |
Storage | 2-8 °C |
Composition | Potassium sorbate |
Features And Benefits | Effective preservative active against molds, yeast and aerophile bacteriaEffectiveness is enhanced further by chelating agents (e.g. EDTA)Extends shelf life of personal care products typically to several monthsEffective in a wide pH range of (2 to 6.5) |
GMO | GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components) |
HS Code | 2916191000 |
INCI | Potassium sorbate |
Isomeric SMILES | C/C=C/C=C/C(=O)[O-].[K+] |
Manufacture | Potassium sorbate is produced by neutralizing sorbic acid with potassium hydroxide. The precursor sorbic acid is produced in a two-step process via the condensation of crotonaldehyde and ketene. |
Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
Raw Material Source | Sorbic acid |
Topological Polar Surface Area | 40.1 Ų |
Uses | Typical concentration 0.15-0.3% (if used alone) or 0.1-0.2% (if used in combination with other preservatives). For external use only. |
Potassium Sorbate, the potassium salt of sorbic acid, is a highly effective preservative widely utilized in both food and personal care products. Known for its broad-spectrum effectiveness against molds, yeasts, and certain bacteria, it is an essential component in extending product shelf life. Initially derived from fruits of the Sorbus tree, it offers antiseptic properties akin to those found naturally in some plants. Recognized as vegan-friendly, Potassium Sorbate is advantageous in a variety of formulations, including skin and hair care, and serves as an excellent alternative to parabens. It functions synergistically with other preservatives to boost overall efficacy. Furthermore, as Potassium Sorbate can be metabolized in the body like other fatty acids, it poses no risk of toxicity. Its formulation versatility is enhanced by its ability to adjust pH levels in acidic solutions, maintaining preservative effectiveness at lower pH values up to 6.5 when combined with acids.
What is Potassium Sorbate, and where does it originate from?
Potassium Sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid. It was initially discovered in the fruits of the Sorbus plant, which is how it got its name. Sorbic acid is a medium-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid known for its antiseptic properties, functioning as a natural defense in some plants' berries against bacteria and mold.
What are the primary uses of Potassium Sorbate?
Potassium Sorbate is widely used as a food-grade preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts, and some bacteria. Besides its food applications, it is also utilized in personal care products to extend shelf life and is valued for its broad-spectrum preservative properties, making it suitable for skin and hair care formulations.
Is Potassium Sorbate considered safe for use?
Yes, Potassium Sorbate is safe for use. It is metabolized in the human body like any other fatty acid, being completely oxidized into CO2 and water. This means there are no toxicity or accumulation concerns associated with its consumption or topical use.
Can Potassium Sorbate be used in vegan products?
Yes, Potassium Sorbate is vegan approved. It is derived from non-animal sources, making it suitable for use in vegan formulations.
How does Potassium Sorbate interact with other preservatives?
Potassium Sorbate works effectively with other preservatives, creating a synergistic effect that enhances overall preservative efficacy. It can serve as an excellent alternative to parabens in preserving various formulations.
What are the benefits of using Potassium Sorbate in acidic formulas?
As potassium is a strong base and sorbic acid is a weak acid, Potassium Sorbate, when in solution, has a high pH that allows formulators to adjust the pH balance in acidic formulas. It is effective as a preservative at lower pH levels (up to 6.5), making it an ideal choice to combine with acids in various formulations.