Is potassium sorbate e202 vegan?

Potassium sorbate E202 is the common name for a widely used food preservative made from the potassium salt of sorbic acid. While sorbic acid was originally isolated from the unripe berries of the rowan tree, commercial supplies are produced synthetically in industrial settings. Manufacturers synthesize it by neutralizing chemically produced sorbic acid with potassium hydroxide, a mineral-derived compound.

This additive prevents the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi to extend the shelf life of various foods and beverages. It commonly appears on ingredient labels for baked goods, fruit preserves, dried fruits, syrups, soft drinks, wine, and plant-based cheese alternatives.

Potassium sorbate E202 is vegan because it is derived entirely from mineral and synthetic sources. Animal ingredients or animal-derived processing aids are not used at any point during its synthesis or purification, making it suitable for a vegan diet.