Comparing E202 - Potassium sorbate vs E264 - Ammonium acetate

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Overview

E202 - Potassium sorbate

Potassium sorbate (E202) is a common preservative that helps stop yeast and mold from growing in foods and drinks. It has a neutral taste, dissolves well in water, and works best in mildly acidic foods. Most food safety agencies consider it acceptable when used as intended.

E264 - Ammonium acetate

Ammonium acetate (E264) is a simple salt made from ammonia and vinegar’s main acid. Food makers use it in small amounts to control acidity and help keep some foods shelf-stable. It appears on labels as “ammonium acetate” or “E264.”

Synonyms

E202

Potassium sorbate

E264

Ammonium acetate

Functions

preservative

acidity regulator

Origins

Synthetic

Microbiological

Synthetic

Products

Found in 23,547 products

Found in 0 products

Search rank & volume

#9322.2K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#2033.9K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×0.14

under-aware

Awareness data is not available.

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 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.