Products
Potassium sorbate is present in many drugs as an excipient, mainly in liquid and semi-solid dosage forms.
Structure and properties
Potassium sorbate (C6H7KO2, Mr = 150.2 g/mol) is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a short-chain unsaturated fatty acid. It exists as a white, odorless powder or granules and is very soluble in water. Sorbic acid is a natural substance, but it is mainly produced synthetically.
Effects
Potassium sorbate has antimicrobial properties and is mainly effective against fungi and weaker against bacteria. The effects are attributed, among other things, to the inactivation of a number of enzymes. This due to the formation of covalent bonds with thiols (-SH). The activity is higher in the acidic range, so potassium sorbate is also combined with acids.
Areas of application
As a preservative for pharmaceuticals and for food.
