What is Sorbic acid?

Sorbic acid is a natural organic compound isolated from the unripe fruit of the Sorbus aucuparia irowantree. It has antimicrobial properties, inhibiting yeasts, moulds and many bacteria, and is widely used as a food preservative.

Benefits

Sorbic acid is a highly effective, safe, non-toxic acid preservative used at pH 5-6. It participates in the normal fat metabolism in the body and is oxidised to carbon dioxide and finally to water. Most importantly, it does not accumulate in the body. Due to its good antimicrobial activity, it is also a commonly used additive in cosmetic formulations to soothe the skin and improve skin inflammation.

Side effects

Sorbic acid is well tolerated in most cases and has no significant side effects in humans. However, it may cause severe irritation in the form of diarrhoea, dizziness or fainting (injection only), flushing or reddening of the skin, headache, increased urination (mild), nausea or vomiting, and stomach cramps. High concentrations are extremely destructive to mucous membranes and tissues of the upper respiratory tract, skin and eyes. In addition, it should be used with caution in people who are allergic to Sorbic acid.