POTASSIUM SORBATE Meaning and
Definition
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Potassium sorbate is a chemical compound composed of potassium salt and sorbic acid. It is a type of food preservative commonly used in the food industry to inhibit the growth of fungi, yeasts, and molds. It is also used as a flavoring agent and as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.
In terms of appearance, potassium sorbate typically exists as a white crystalline powder or granules. It is soluble in water and can be easily dissolved, making it convenient to incorporate into various products. Its chemical formula is C6H7KO2.
As a preservative, potassium sorbate functions by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. It does so by disrupting their cellular membranes and metabolic processes, thereby preventing spoilage and foodborne illness. It is particularly effective against multi-celled fungi and yeasts, making it an important ingredient in a wide range of processed foods, beverages, and dietary supplements.
However, it is important to note that potassium sorbate has certain limitations. It is less effective against bacteria and has limited efficiency in acidic conditions. Therefore, it is often combined with other preservatives or used in conjunction with pH adjustment measures to enhance its overall effectiveness.
Potassium sorbate is considered safe for human consumption when used within regulated limits established by relevant food safety authorities. It has been thoroughly assessed for its potential health effects and is widely recognized as a reliable and approved food preservative.
Common Misspellings for POTASSIUM SORBATE
- ootassium sorbate
- lotassium sorbate
- -otassium sorbate
- 0otassium sorbate
- pitassium sorbate
- pktassium sorbate
- pltassium sorbate
- pptassium sorbate
- p0tassium sorbate
- p9tassium sorbate
- porassium sorbate
- pofassium sorbate
- pogassium sorbate
- poyassium sorbate
- po6assium sorbate
- po5assium sorbate
- potzssium sorbate
- potsssium sorbate
- potwssium sorbate
- potqssium sorbate
Etymology of POTASSIUM SORBATE
The word "Potassium Sorbate" is derived from the combination of "potassium" and "sorbate".
1. Potassium: The term "potassium" originated from the French word "potasse", which was derived from the word "pot", meaning potash. It was first isolated and named by English chemist Humphry Davy in 1807, derived from the English word "potash" and the element's symbol "K" which represents kalium, the Medieval Latin name for potash.
2. Sorbate: The term "sorbate" comes from the verb "sorb", which means to absorb or to take in. It is derived from the Latin word "sorbus", meaning the fruit of the service tree.
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