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Sorbic acid

Sorbic acid suppliers and sourcing guide

Sorbic acid is a short-chain unsaturated fatty acid, first isolated from rowan berries, that inhibits yeasts and molds in acidic foods. Commercial sorbic acid is synthetic, made mainly by condensing ketene with crotonaldehyde and breaking down the resulting polyester. It is a white powder or granule with low water solubility, so it is used in fats, cheese, baked goods and dry mixes, while its potassium salt is used where it must dissolve.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
2,4-hexadienoic acid · E200 · (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoic acid
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of sorbic acid

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Powder

    Fine powder for dry blends and dusting on cheese and baked goods.

  • Granular

    Coarser, lower-dust grades.

  • Encapsulated

    Coated sorbic acid that releases during baking so it does not interfere with yeast in dough.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Assay
Sorbic acid content on an anhydrous basis by titration, against FCC or supplier limits.
Melting range
Melting range, a quick identity and purity check.
Water
Karl Fischer water content.
Aldehydes
Aldehyde limit test, a standard purity check for sorbates.
Residue on ignition
Inorganic residue.
Lead and heavy metals
Lead and other metals by ICP-MS.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Sorbic acid can slowly oxidize and discolor in air, light and heat, so keep it sealed in lined packaging in a cool, dry, dark place. The powder can irritate eyes and airways, so handle it with dust control. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

Lots and expiry dates

Record form (powder, granular or encapsulated) and assay for each lot, since encapsulated grades carry less sorbic acid per kilogram. Check color on older lots and rotate FEFO.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Sorbic acid suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking sorbic acid suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of sorbic acid can brands buy?

Common forms include powder, granular and encapsulated. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for sorbic acid include?

Expect assay, melting range, water, aldehydes, residue on ignition and lead and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should sorbic acid be stored?

Sorbic acid can slowly oxidize and discolor in air, light and heat, so keep it sealed in lined packaging in a cool, dry, dark place. The powder can irritate eyes and airways, so handle it with dust control. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

What is the regulatory status of sorbic acid?

21 CFR 182.3089 lists sorbic acid as generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice. Health Canada's List of Permitted Preservatives includes sorbic acid.

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