Sorbic acid is an artificial preservative with the lowest possible hazard. Quite often used in various sectors of human life. This is an exclusively natural element of the organic plan.
Brief information
A colorless crystalline element that dissolves very poorly in liquids. The formula is denoted C6H8O2. It has been known since the end of the 19th century, when it was extracted from the juice of rowan (its name is from Latin and means “rowan”). Only a century later, sorbic acid was studied and recognized as a strong antimicrobial element. This discovery became a key one: intensive industrial production of the preservative started.
In industry, sorbic acid is obtained by condensation reactions with ketone elements. This is possible only with the help of catalysts.
Main qualities
The additive has a number of unique, inimitable qualities. Among them: antimicrobial properties (especially effectively inhibits the growth of yeast-like fungi and mold); safety for living cells; non-toxicity; no carcinogenic effect.
It has been proven that the use in reasonable amounts has a beneficial effect on living elements. As it turned out, it greatly enhances immunity, increases detoxification and restoration of cellular elements. These properties have opened the acid as the newest preservative, which greatly increases the storage.
No carcinogens were found. The preservative is not able to destroy microbial agents. Its action is aimed at inhibiting their spread and development.
It is extremely important to add it to raw materials devoid of microbes. There are species that have the ability to split the preservative. E200 shows its unique qualities only at low pH.
| Synonyms | sorbic acid 2,4-Hexadienoic acid 2,4-hexadienic acid |
| Source | Rowan berries, artificial synthesis in the laboratory |
| Daily requirement (dosage) | Up to 25 mg per kg of body weight |
| Empirical formula | C6H8O2 |
| Color | Whitish |
| Smell | Weak |
| Appearance | Powdery, colorless, resembles needle crystals |
| Taste | subacid |
Application
Today, the sorbin element is considered common in nutrition. This is due to its availability, usefulness, extreme efficiency. This preservative is allowed in all countries.
There are fairly clear guidelines for concentration. As the definition says, the amount is 30-300 grams per 100 kilograms of product.
The supplement can be found in products including:
- juices;
- bakery products.
And in wine, acid must be present, because it plays the role of a stabilizer. Sorbic acid GOST indicates its mandatory presence in products:
- mayonnaise;
- alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks;
- all semi-finished products;
- caviar;
- a fish.
The acid does not dissolve in the dough, so it does not inhibit the development of yeast. In baking, it exhibits a highly effective action against mold elements.
Preservative sorbic acid increases shelf life. Since it is poorly soluble in water at low temperatures, experts use only aqueous solutions. Common in some potassium sorbate, as an alternative to the classic sorbin. It keeps better. The preservative does not change the taste and appearance of the product.
It is often used for household needs. Acid is widely used for canning, meat and fish products. The harm from the E200 is minimal compared to the benefits it brings.
Harm
Simultaneous harm and benefit are inherent in all substances. So, there is information about the individual intolerance of the component. When using the supplement, irritation, a rash on different areas of the body can be observed. But such episodes are rare.
Possible rashes. Harm brings the destruction of cyanocobalamin. Its deficiency leads to various neurological disorders.
E200 is easily digestible, non-toxic, exhibits antiseptic properties. Therefore, it is extremely useful for the body. According to the results of numerous world studies, the reactions of the sorbin element do not harm cells.
The substance belongs to the category of safe elements and, provided there is no significant overdose, does not harm health.
True, acid causes harm to allergy sufferers. An element synthesized in the laboratory has a negative impact on human health more often than a natural one. There are proven facts according to which a sensitive organism does not tolerate a substance well. There is difficulty breathing, fainting.
Experiments have shown that the formula of this substance adversely affects the liver and brain of a living organism. Long-term consumption of products with E200 increases the risk of allergic reactions on the hands and head.
Packaging
The food element is delivered directly to the factories in paper 3-layer bags or bags. The volume of one of them is at least 25 kg.
Inside the obligatory presence of a plastic bag (at least 0,08 mm thick). According to the standards, packaging in other types of packaging is also allowed. Barrels and containers are popular. This is the only way to ensure the safety of the product.
The substance is transported by any transport, but only in covered facilities. The element is non-toxic, safe. Store in closed containers. It is extremely important to prevent moisture from entering. Warranty period of storage – one year. The expiration date is not limited. Sun exposure should not be allowed.
Manufacturers
The main manufacturer is called the company GIORD. The competition is made by the Chinese concerns which open the subsidiaries across all Europe.
The element is often indispensable in the processing of containers for packaging. It is used for further packaging of products. E200 contains in its composition substances that significantly increase the shelf life and prevent the occurrence of mold. At the same time, the organoleptic and quality of products does not suffer at all.