Definition

Noun: A white, crystalline, unsaturated carboxylic acid (C₆H₈O₂) that occurs naturally in some berries but is produced synthetically for use as a mild, effective preservative, primarily against molds and yeasts, in food, beverage, and cosmetic products.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Sorbic acid is commonly added to cheese and wine to prevent spoilage.
  • The ingredient list includes sorbic acid to extend the product's shelf life.
  • As a preservative, sorbic acid is effective at low concentrations.

Advanced Usage

• "Sorbic acid salts": The potassium salt of sorbic acid (potassium sorbate) is more commonly used in many applications due to its higher solubility in water.
  • Potassium sorbate, a derivative of sorbic acid, is often used in liquid foods.

Variants and Related Words

• Potassium sorbate (n): The potassium salt of sorbic acid, widely used as a food preservative.
• Sorbate (n): A salt or ester of sorbic acid.

Synonyms

• Preservative E200: Its designation in the European food additive numbering system.
• 2,4-Hexadienoic acid: Its systematic IUPAC chemical name.

Notes on Meaning

This word refers specifically to the chemical compound itself. Its primary and almost exclusive modern use is in the context of food science and industrial preservation, denoting a specific antimicrobial agent.

Noun

1. a white crystalline carboxylic acid used as a preservative