INCI Name
Potassium Sorbate
Functions
2 Roles
Sustainability
7/10
Category
preservatives
What It Does
Potassium Sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, widely recognized as one of the mildest and safest preservatives in cosmetics. It works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts and molds, making it particularly effective in water-based formulations, though its efficacy diminishes significantly above pH 6.5. Formulators favor it for its excellent safety profile, lack of formaldehyde release, and synergistic effects when combined with other preservatives, allowing for lower overall preservative concentrations in formulations.
Technical Properties
pH Range
3.0-6.5
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
anionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
Potassium Sorbate is an antimicrobial preservative that will kill probiotic organisms. Never use antimicrobial preservatives in probiotic formulations.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
synthetic
Feedstock
sorbic acid (derived from natural or synthetic sources) neutralized with potassium hydroxide
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Available Variants
17 forms available
Anhydrous Powder
Fine Granular Powder (Food/Cosmetic Grade)
Fine Powder, Food/Cosmetic Grade
Food Grade Powder
Granular
Granular powder
Granular Powder
Granular Powder (FCC Grade)
Granular powder (food-grade)
Granular Powder, Food Grade
Powder
Powder (food grade)
Powder (granular)
Standard
Food-grade granular potassium sorbate, > 99% purity
Food-grade granular, dissolved in portion of water before addition
Food-grade granular, FCC specification; dissolve in water before addition
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Potassium Sorbate
- Common Name
- Potassium Sorbate
- CAS Number
- 24634-61-5
- Category
- preservatives