Is Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic) Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic) is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (preservatives).
INCI name POTASSIUM SORBATE. Also called Potassium Sorbate. CAS 590-00-1.
Other names: Sorbic Acid Potassium Salt, E202 (food grade)
Is Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic) banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Acure Brightening Facial Scrub, Burts Bees Body Lotion, Desert Essence Facial Cleanser |
| CAS number | 590-00-1 |
What is Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic)?
Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in rowan berries. It is an antifungal and antiyeast preservative used in cosmetics, food, and personal care products.
Why is Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic) used in personal-care products?
Primarily used to prevent mold and yeast growth in cosmetic formulations. It is most effective in slightly acidic conditions and is commonly used alongside sodium benzoate for broader-spectrum preservation.
Is Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic) dangerous? Documented risks
Potassium sorbate is one of the least allergenic preservatives used in cosmetics. The CIR and EU SCCS have confirmed its safety at permitted concentrations (≤0.6% in EU cosmetics, as sorbic acid equivalent). It is non-mutagenic, non-carcinogenic, and not an endocrine disruptor. Mild skin sensitization is possible but uncommon. It is widely accepted in natural and organic cosmetics certifications.
Products that may contain Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic)
How to avoid Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic): safer alternatives
Sodium dehydroacetate for antifungal function; combination systems with sodium benzoate.
Frequently asked questions about Potassium Sorbate (Cosmetic)
Is potassium sorbate natural?
Sorbic acid occurs naturally in rowan berries, but commercial potassium sorbate is synthetically produced. It is accepted by most natural cosmetic certifiers (COSMOS, ECOCERT, NATRUE) as a permitted preservative.
Is potassium sorbate paraben-free?
Yes. It is a completely separate class of preservative with no structural relationship to parabens.
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Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Sorbic Acid and Potassium Sorbate — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex V – Preservatives — European Commission
- EWG Skin Deep: Potassium Sorbate — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.