E 202 Potassium sorbate

What is E 202?

E 202 is the E number of Potassium sorbate. Potassium salt of sorbic acid and one of the most common preservatives. It protects cheese, wine, baked goods, deli salads and drinks against moulds and yeasts.

What is E 202 used for?

E 202 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as preservative.

• Preservative: Preservatives prolong shelf life by protecting food against microorganisms.

Which foods may contain E 202?

According to the European Commission's database, E 202 may be used in 60 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Meat
• Fish and fisheries products
• Eggs and egg products
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 202 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 202 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 202 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Preservative: E 202" or "Preservative: Potassium sorbate".