Sorbic acid

Sorbic acid is an organic acid, solutions of which exhibit antimicrobial activity, and the free acid and its salts, the sorbates, are used as food preservatives. Its systematic name is 2,4-hexadienoic acid. It also has uses in acidulants and flavourings, but preservation is its main role: it is active chiefly against yeasts and moulds, protecting cheese, baked goods, beverages, and dried fruits at low concentrations. It has a good safety record, minimal impact on flavour at use levels, and is one of the most widely permitted preservatives in the world, with maximum levels and labelling requirements set by food law in each market.