What is E202?
E202 is Potassium Sorbate — the potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E202 (Potassium Sorbate)?
E202 is the E-number for potassium sorbate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. The potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E202 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E202 in detail below.
Where is E202 found?
E202 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E202) or by its full name, potassium sorbate. Common foods that may contain E202 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E202 and how to spot it on labels →
E202 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Potassium Sorbate safe?
Is E202 safe?
E202 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E202.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E202 vegan?
E202 is vegan. The potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E202 →Is E202 halal?
E202 is halal. The potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E202 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E202 in food?
E202 is Potassium Sorbate — the potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E202 safe to eat?
Yes. E202 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E202 vegan?
E202 is vegan. The potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E202 halal?
E202 is halal. The potassium salt of sorbic acid, produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).