E200 - Sorbic acid

E200 is sorbic acid, a preservative against mould and yeast.

It was first found in rowan berries and is now made industrially. In our catalog it is most common in cakes and pastries, where mould is the main enemy. Its more common sibling is potassium sorbate (E202).

How common is it? 2.5% of the products we checked, 417 in all, led by cakes, biscuits and pastries and sauces, spreads and salads.

E200 at a glance

FactValue
NameSorbic acid
FunctionPreservative
OriginPlant, mineral or synthetic
Vegan / vegetarianYes / Yes

Is E200 vegan?

Yes. E200 has no animal source, so it suits both vegans and vegetarians.

More in: Preservative