Potassium sorbate, the potassium salt of sorbic acid, is a white salt that is soluble in water.

It is the most widespread food preservative with the E number E202. Virtually all potassium sorbate is produced synthetically. 

Being a versatile food preservative with almost no known negative health effects, it is found in almost all processed food products that have an extended shelf life. Cheese, yogurt, wine, processed meats, fruit and soft drinks, bakery goods, are only a few products where postassium sorbate is used.