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Potassium Sorbate

A preservative that keeps things fresh.

What it does

Stops mold and yeast from growing, so the product lasts longer.

Good to know

The EU allows up to 0.6% (measured as sorbic acid). It's the potassium salt of sorbic acid.

Often found in: Shower gels, Shampoos, Soaps

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: Allowed up to 0.6% as a preservative (measured as sorbic acid). Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: Listed in the Poisons Standard as not needing any controls. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of sorbic acid and its salts as food additives (2015) (Independent)
• CIR: Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate (1988) (Industry-funded)