Is Sorbic Acid (E200) Vegan?

Vegan status: Vegan

E-number: E200

Also known as: Potassium sorbate (E202), Calcium sorbate (E203), 2,4-hexadienoic acid

Source

Originally isolated from the berries of Sorbus aucuparia (rowan tree) in 1859. Now produced synthetically from ketene and crotonaldehyde — entirely petrochemical, no animal involvement.

Commonly found in

Cheese, wine, dried fruit, bread, cakes, yoghurt, processed meats, fruit juices, pickled products. One of the most common food preservatives globally.

Vegan alternative: No substitute needed — E200 and its salts are vegan.

Notes

E200 (sorbic acid) and its potassium salt E202 (potassium sorbate) are among the safest and most widely used food preservatives. Generally recognised as safe (GRAS) in the USA. Works by inhibiting mould and yeast growth. Commonly found in vegan products like plant-based cheese alternatives and fermented products.