At a glance
- CAS number
- 24634-61-5
- INCI name
- Potassium Sorbate
- Function
- preservative, antifungal, antimicrobial
- Typical use level
- 0.1%–0.5%
- Solubility
- water
- Stable pH
- 3–6.5
CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.
Also known as
Sorbistat potassium Sorbic acid potassium salt BB Powder Sorbic acid, potassium salt Sorbistat-potassium potassium (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate Sorbistat k FEMA No. 2921 Potassium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate Potassium (E,E)-2,4-hexadienoate Ins no.202 Potassium (e,e')-sorbate
Compatibility
Works well with:
Sodium Benzoate Phenoxyethanol Ethylhexylglycerin Glycerin Niacinamide Hyaluronic Acid Allantoin Xanthan Gum Carbomer Panthenol
Use caution with:
L-Ascorbic Acid Cationic Surfactants High-concentration Nonionic Surfactants Oxidizing Agents Polyquaternium compounds
Potassium Sorbate is most effective at acidic pH (below 6.5); above this range, the sorbic acid dissociates and antimicrobial efficacy drops significantly. Cationic surfactants and polyquaternium compounds can form ion pairs with sorbate, reducing its availability and effectiveness. High concentrations of L-Ascorbic Acid can oxidize sorbate, causing formulation discoloration and loss of preservative activity.
Formulation notes
Primarily active against yeasts and molds; limited antibacterial activity, so it is typically used in combination with other preservatives (e.g., Sodium Benzoate or Phenoxyethanol) for broad-spectrum protection. EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009) permits up to 0.6% as preservative. Keep pH at or below 6.5 for optimal efficacy. Water-soluble; add to aqueous phase.
Related ingredients
- ChlorphenesinPreservative
- Salicylic AcidActive
- Benzyl AlcoholPreservative
- Caprylyl GlycolPreservative
- Azelaic AcidActive
- Kojic AcidActive