Disclaimer: 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 may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Sorbic Acid
E200 | INS 200
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E200
- INS Number
- 200
- CAS Number
- 110-44-1
- Scientific Name
- (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoic acid
- Japanese Name
- ソルビン酸
- Also Known As
- 2,4-Hexadienoic acid
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Maximum levels typically 300-2000 mg/kg depending on food type
United States
Status: approved | GRAS
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 指定添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 200
Canada
Status: approved
What is Sorbic Acid?
Classification
Function: preservative
Type: organic acid
Source: synthetic (originally natural)
Natural Occurrence
Originally isolated from rowan berries, but now commercially produced synthetically. Occurs naturally in some plants.
Found in: Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia), Hippophae
How It's Made
Method: chemical synthesis
Commercially produced by condensation of crotonaldehyde and ketene, or by oxidation of sorbaldehyde.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products.
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a preservative in pharmaceutical preparations.
- Industrial: Used in packaging materials and coatings.
Commonly Found In
Sorbic Acid is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: 3 mg/kg bw/day
Evaluated: 2015
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
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.
Related Additives
Other preservatives in our database: