Sorbic acid - Definition and Overview

Sorbic acid (also known as trans, trans-2,4-hexadienoic acid) has the chemical formula C₆H₈O₂. Should not be confused with Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C).

It is often used as a preservative in food and drinks. It has number E200.

Chemical structure:

 H    
  \  
H--C--H   H
    \    /
     C==C      H
    /    \    /
   H      C==C
         /    \
        H      C==O
              /
          H--O

It was first derived from the unripe berries of the Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), hence its name.

External links

• Sorbic acid on chm.bris.ac.uk (http://www.chm.bris.ac.uk/webprojects2001/ghumra/intro.htm)
• Sorbic inchem.org (http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/40abcj14.htm)