Comparing E202 - Potassium sorbate vs E240 - Formaldehyde
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Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is potassium sorbate bad for you?
Generally no; potassium sorbate (E202) is a low-toxicity preservative approved by major regulators, though high concentrations can irritate and rare sensitivities occur.
Is potassium sorbate safe?
Yes—it's considered safe at permitted food levels by authorities like FDA, EFSA, and JECFA; occasional mild sensitivities have been reported.
How much potassium sorbate per gallon of mead?
Typically about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L) to inhibit refermentation; add after fermentation is complete and alongside sulfite.
How much potassium sorbate per gallon of wine?
Commonly about 0.6–1.0 g per US gallon (≈150–250 mg/L); use with sulfite and check any local limits on sorbate levels.
Is potassium sorbate gluten free?
Yes—it's a synthetic preservative and contains no gluten, so it's suitable for people with celiac disease.
What is formaldehyde used for?
Primarily to make industrial resins, plastics, and disinfectants; as a food additive (E240) it was historically used as a preservative but is not permitted in the EU or US due to safety concerns.
What does formaldehyde smell like?
It has a strong, sharp, pungent (antiseptic) odor that is irritating and noticeable even at very low concentrations.
Is formaldehyde toxic?
Yes—it's acutely irritating/toxic and is classified as a known human carcinogen; it's not allowed as a food additive, though small amounts naturally present in foods are rapidly metabolized.
What does formaldehyde do to the body?
It reacts with tissues (proteins and DNA), causing eye, nose, and throat irritation and, at high doses, chemical burns if ingested; chronic inhalation increases certain cancer risks, though the body also produces and quickly metabolizes small amounts to formate and CO2.
Does fireball have formaldehyde in it?
No—Fireball does not contain added formaldehyde; a past European issue concerned propylene glycol, not formaldehyde.