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Sorbic Acid

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 25, 2023.

Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

Sorbic acid (C6H8O2) is a natural preservative that comes from the rowan berries, Sorbus aucuparia (family Rosaceae). It is also prepared synthetically. It inhibits growth of fungi, yeast, mold and some bacteria and is nearly nontoxic to humans. Sorbic acid is safe to use in a wide range of foods, drugs, and cosmetic products. Sorbic acid and its salts, sodium sorbate, potassium sorbate and calcium sorbate are often used in food products as preservatives.

List of medications using Sorbic Acid

References

  1. FDA. Database of Select Committee on GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Reviews. Accessed March 3, 2015 at http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/fcn/fcnDetailNavigation.cfm?rpt=scogslisting&id=324
  2. Drugs.com Sorbic acid. Accessed March 3, 2015 at http://www.drugs.com/dict/sorbic-acid.html

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.