preservative INS 200

Sorbic Acid E200

organic acid — Primarily synthetic (originally natural).

🇪🇺 EU: Approved
🇺🇸 USA: Approved
🇯🇵 Japan: Approved
🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved
🇨🇦 Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

(2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoic acid

CAS: 110-44-1

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Sorbic Acid occurs naturally in Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia) and Hippophae. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Sorbic Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by food category mg/kg

Maximum levels typically 300-2000 mg/kg depending on food type

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0–3 mg/kg bw/day

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

3 mg/kg bw/day

Natural Occurrence

Originally isolated from rowan berries, but now commercially produced synthetically. Occurs naturally in some plants.

Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia)Hippophae

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Commercially produced by condensation of crotonaldehyde and ketene, or by oxidation of sorbaldehyde.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products.

Medical

Used as a preservative in pharmaceutical preparations.

Industrial

Used in packaging materials and coatings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sorbic Acid (E200)?
Sorbic Acid (E200) is a preservative used in food products. It is organic acid and synthetic (originally natural). Originally isolated from rowan berries, but now commercially produced synthetically. Occurs naturally in some plants.
Where is Sorbic Acid found naturally?
Sorbic Acid is naturally found in Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia), Hippophae. Originally isolated from rowan berries, but now commercially produced synthetically. Occurs naturally in some plants.
What is the ADI for Sorbic Acid?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Sorbic Acid is 0–3 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Sorbic Acid?
Sorbic Acid is used in various food categories including Ripened cheese, Processed fruit and vegetables. It is used as a preservative in these products.