Potassium sorbate

Potassium sorbate is listed in the U.S. food regulations in the subpart for chemical preservatives. The listing states that the substance is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice.

The federal labeling rule defines a chemical preservative as any chemical that, when added to food, tends to prevent or retard deterioration of it. Foods containing one must carry a label declaration naming both the ingredient and its function, with words such as preservative or to retard spoilage. A related definition describes antimicrobial agents as substances used to preserve food by preventing growth of microorganisms and subsequent spoilage.

Bakers and food makers look for ingredients like this when a cake, filling, icing or syrup has to stay stable on a shelf for longer than a few days. It is used in small amounts, and good manufacturing practice sets the limit.