Sorbic acid (E200)

• Food ✓ Fine
• Cosmetics ✓ Fine

Reviewed 7 October 2026 by an AI reviewer working to Yasno’s written review rules

What is Sorbic acid (E200)?

Sorbic acid (E200) is a preservative, first found in rowan berries, that stops mould and yeast growing in cheese, bread and drinks. Even children who eat a lot of it stay well under the safe daily limit. It's fine at normal amounts.

What does Sorbic acid do in cosmetics?

In cosmetics, sorbic acid is a mild preservative that keeps creams and lotions free of mould. At normal use it isn't a concern for the body. It's fine for most people; it can occasionally sting or redden sensitive or broken skin.

What is Yasno’s verdict on Sorbic acid?

Yasno’s verdict on Sorbic acid: In food: Fine. No meaningful concern at normal amounts. In cosmetics: Fine. No meaningful concern at normal amounts.

How verdicts work

Is Sorbic acid allowed in the EU?

EU status of Sorbic acid: In food: Permitted as a food additive. In cosmetics: Permitted as a preservative in cosmetics (Annex V of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009). Conditions and limits come from the regulation cited below. Yasno summarises them and does not replace the legal text.

What else is it called?

• (2E,4E)-hexa-2,4-dienoic acid
• 2E,4E-Hexadienoic acid
• Sorbistat

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