E200: Sorbic Acid (Antifungal Preservative)

Direct Answer

E200 (Sorbic Acid / 2,4-hexadienoic acid) is an unsaturated organic carboxylic acid preservative with broad antifungal and antimold activity. INS 200, group ADI is 11 mg/kg bw/day (expressed as sorbic acid), active across acidic and neutral pH up to 6.5.

Source: EFSA ANS Panel (2019) / JECFA · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026

Specs

E-Number Code	E200
INS / Codex Number	INS 200
Functional Class	Preservative (Antifungal, Antimicrobial)
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)	11 mg / kg body weight per day (as sorbic acid)
Chemical Formula	C6H8O2
Primary Mechanism	Un-dissociated acid penetrates mold/yeast cell membranes, inhibiting enolase and dehydrogenase enzymes
Common Target Foods	Cheese wraps, baked pastries, dried fruits, fermented pickles, wine stabilization
Dietary Compliance	100% Vegan (Chemical synthesis), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval	EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.3089)

pKa and pH Superiority over Benzoate

With a pKa of 4.76, sorbic acid remains active up to pH 6.5 (unlike benzoic acid which fails above pH 4.5), allowing effective mold prevention in near-neutral cheeses and baked goods.