E201 · Sodium sorbate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E201?
Sodium sorbate is the sodium salt of sorbic acid, used as a preservative to inhibit mould, yeast, and some bacteria in foods and beverages, extending shelf life. It works best in acidic products such as cheeses, baked goods, sauces, and dressings. It is permitted by regulators including the FDA within approved limits and falls under the same group acceptable daily intake as sorbic acid and other sorbates.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium sorbate, E201, E 201, E-201, INS 201, Sodium salt of sorbic acid, NaC6H7O2, Na(C5H7COO), Sorbic acid sodium salt, Sodium (E,E)-hexa-2,4-dienoate, Sodium sorbates, Natrio sorbatas.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels; rare mild allergic-type reactions or skin irritation have been reported in sensitive individuals.
Research behind the verdict
- Sodium Sorbate (E201) – Safety Review — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2015). Salt of sorbic acid; quickly metabolised; considered safe under ADI 3 mg/kg bw/day.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E201 safe?
Our overall verdict for E201 (Sodium sorbate) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E201 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium sorbate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E201 and why is it used?
Sodium sorbate is the sodium salt of sorbic acid, used as a preservative to inhibit mould, yeast, and some bacteria in foods and beverages, extending shelf life. It works best in acidic products such as cheeses, baked goods, sauces, and dressings. It is permitted by regulators including the FDA within approved limits and falls under the same group acceptable daily intake as sorbic acid and other sorbates.
Does E201 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium sorbate.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.