This section focuses on an overview of sorbic acid powder as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to sorbic acid manufacturers, supply chain issues, sorbic acid suppliers, and sorbic acid prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality sorbic acid in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on E200 and CAS 110-44-1.
Table of Contents
What is Sorbic Acid?
Sorbic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid that plays a crucial role in food preservation. First isolated from the berries of the mountain ash tree (Sorbus aucuparia) in 1859, it has become one of the most widely used preservatives in the modern food industry. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), sorbic acid is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The molecular structure of sorbic acid consists of a straight chain of six carbon atoms with a carboxylic acid group at one end and two double bonds within the chain. This unique configuration gives sorbic acid its antimicrobial properties.
CAS No.: 110-44-1
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of sorbic acid is 110-44-1.
Molecular Formula: C6H8O2
Molecular Mass: 112.13
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Solubility: Slightly dissolves in water, 1.6 g/L at 20 °C.
Other Names:
Sorbic acid
Sorbistat
Panosorb
E200
2,4-Hexadienoic acid
Sorbinic acid
2,4-Hexadienoic acid, (E,E)-
trans,trans-Sorbic acid
(2E,4E)-2,4-Hexadienoic acid
α-trans-γ-trans-Sorbic acid
E number: E200
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), sorbic acid is approved to be used as E200 food additive.
Bulk Sorbic Acid Manufacturers
The global sorbic acid production capacity is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like Celanese and Daicel. Their advanced manufacturing facilities and robust distribution networks enable them to serve diverse markets across North America, Europe, and Asia. Their commitments to quality control and sustainable production practices have established them as preferred suppliers for major food manufacturers. China remains the largest manufacturing hub, accounting for approximately 60% of global production capacity. The region benefits from lower production costs and proximity to raw material suppliers.
Sinofi is a bulk sorbic acid manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of sorbic acid E200. We supply high-quality sorbic acid powder at bulk prices and serve the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Sorbic Acid
Raw Materials and Initial Preparation
The primary starting materials for sorbic acid production are ketene (CH2CO) and crotonaldehyde (C4H6O). Ketene is typically produced through the pyrolysis of acetic acid, while crotonaldehyde is synthesized through the aldol condensation of acetaldehyde followed by dehydration. These raw materials must meet strict purity specifications to ensure product quality.
Manufacturing Process
Step 1: Condensation Reaction
The process begins with the condensation reaction between ketene and crotonaldehyde. This reaction occurs in a temperature-controlled reactor maintained at approximately 25-30°C. The reaction produces an intermediate compound, β-ketopentanoic acid.
Step 2: Isomerization
The intermediate undergoes isomerization under controlled conditions, typically in the presence of a catalyst. This step transforms the molecule into the desired trans-trans configuration of sorbic acid. Temperature control is crucial during this phase, usually maintained between 40-50°C.
Step 3: Crystallization
The reaction mixture is then cooled to facilitate crystallization. The solution undergoes multiple crystallization stages to improve purity. This step typically occurs at temperatures between 5-15°C, with careful control of cooling rates to ensure optimal crystal formation.
Step 4: Filtration and Washing
The crystallized sorbic acid is separated from the mother liquor through filtration. The crystals are washed with purified water to remove any residual impurities. Multiple washing stages may be employed to achieve the desired purity level.
Step 5: Drying
The washed crystals undergo drying in specially designed equipment, typically using warm air circulation at temperatures between 50-60°C. The moisture content is carefully monitored to meet specifications, usually below 0.5%.
Quality Control and Parameters
The manufacturing process includes rigorous quality control measures at various stages:
• Purity testing (minimum 99.0%)
• Melting point verification (132-135°C)
• Moisture content analysis
• Residual solvent testing
• Microbiological testing
The manufacturing of sorbic acid is a complex process requiring precise control of multiple parameters. Continuous technological advancements and growing demand for natural preservatives drive ongoing improvements in production efficiency and product quality.
Bulk Sorbic Acid Suppliers
The global sorbic acid supply is dominated by bulk suppliers like Celanese, Daicel, and some Chinese companies. They stand as the bulk sorbic acid suppliers, with significant manufacturing capacity in North America, Europe, and Asia. These companies maintain stringent quality control processes and offer various grades of sorbic acid suitable for different applications.
Sinofi is a bulk sorbic acid supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality sorbic acid E200. We sell different grades of sorbic acid at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Sorbic Acid
The sorbic acid supply chain represents a complex global network that continues to evolve in response to market demands and challenges. While the current structure has proven effective in meeting global demand, ongoing efforts to diversify production locations and improve supply chain resilience.
Supply Chain Structure
Raw Materials
The sorbic acid supply chain begins with the production of key raw materials, primarily crotonaldehyde and ketene. These components are predominantly manufactured in large petrochemical facilities, with China controlling approximately 65% of global production capacity. Secondary production hubs exist in Western Europe and North America, though at significantly smaller scales.
Manufacturing Process
Major manufacturing facilities are strategically located near raw material sources, with the largest concentration in China. These facilities typically operate at massive scales to achieve economies of scale and maintain cost competitiveness.
Distribution Network
The distribution network consists of multiple tiers:
- Primary Distributors: Large chemical distribution companies that purchase directly from manufacturers and maintain significant warehouse capacity. These distributors typically handle bulk quantities and serve multiple regions.
- Secondary Distributors: Regional distributors who break down bulk shipments into smaller quantities for local markets. They often provide value-added services such as repackaging and local delivery.
- End-User Direct Supply: Large food manufacturers and industrial users purchase directly from manufacturers or primary distributors, bypassing intermediate channels.
The industry’s future success will depend on its ability to address key challenges while capitalizing on opportunities for innovation and sustainable development. Stakeholders across the supply chain must remain adaptable and forward-thinking to maintain competitiveness in this dynamic market.
Wholesale and Buy Sorbic Acid in Bulk
Successfully purchasing sorbic acid in bulk requires careful attention to quality, supplier selection, storage requirements, and regulatory compliance. By developing a comprehensive procurement strategy that addresses these key aspects, sorbic acid buyers can optimize their supply chain and ensure consistent access to high-quality sorbic acid for their operations. If you are a beginner in bulk sorbic acid procurement, you should consider starting with smaller wholesale quantities to establish handling procedures and supplier relationships before scaling to larger volumes. Regular market analysis and supplier evaluation will help maintain competitive pricing and reliable supply chains.
As a bulk sorbic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality E200 ingredient for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and personal care industries. We also wholesale sorbic acid powder to small customers. Normally, they want to buy sorbic acid in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale high-quality sorbic acid at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Sorbic Acid Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Sorbic Acid Price (Purity = 99.0%–101.0%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 5 USD | Express |
| 500g | 16 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 22 USD /Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
The primary factor affecting sorbic acid prices has been the volatility in raw material costs, particularly that of crotonaldehyde and ketene. Bulk sorbic acid manufacturers in China, which account for approximately 60% of global sorbic acid production, have dealt with increased production costs due to stricter environmental regulations and energy pricing pressures. The Asian market has shown slightly lower pricing due to proximity to manufacturing centers, while European and American markets command premium prices due to additional logistics costs.
Furthermore, the above sorbic acid price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of sorbic acid may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk sorbic acid wholesale prices will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Sorbic Acid Uses
Sorbic acid has become an indispensable ingredient across multiple industries. It serves primarily as a food preservative, though its applications extend far beyond food preservation.
Food Uses
In food manufacturing, sorbic acid plays a crucial role in extending product shelf life. It effectively inhibits the growth of molds, yeasts, and select bacteria, making it particularly valuable in preserving products with intermediate moisture levels. Common applications include preserved fruits, dairy products, baked goods, and wine. The preservative’s effectiveness at low concentrations, typically 0.1% to 0.2%, makes it an economical choice for manufacturers.
Cosmetic and Personal Care Uses
The personal care industry leverages sorbic acid’s antimicrobial properties in various formulations. Manufacturers incorporate it into moisturizers, lotions, and other cosmetic products to prevent microbial contamination and extend shelf life. Its stability in neutral pH environments and compatibility with other common ingredients make it particularly suitable for these applications.
Pharmaceutical Uses
In the pharmaceutical industry, sorbic acid serves both as a preservative and as an excipient. Its presence helps maintain the stability of liquid medications, topical preparations, and other pharmaceutical products. The compound’s well-documented safety profile and broad regulatory acceptance contribute to its widespread use in this sector.
Industrial Uses
Beyond consumer products, sorbic acid finds applications in technical fields. Industries use it in the production of plasticizers, lubricants, and intermediate chemicals. Its role in preventing bacterial growth in industrial processes helps maintain product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
Safety and Regulatory Status
Regulatory bodies worldwide, including the FDA and European Food Safety Authority, have thoroughly evaluated sorbic acid. Its designation as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) reflects its strong safety profile. Its natural occurrence and minimal environmental impact further enhance its appeal as a preservative choice.
Sorbic Acid Benefits
Sorbic acid stands out as a highly effective preservative that offers numerous benefits across multiple industries.
Antimicrobial Effectiveness
The preservative exhibits remarkable efficacy against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. It effectively inhibits the growth of molds, yeasts, and various bacteria while maintaining its antimicrobial properties across a wide pH range. This versatility ensures product stability and safety across diverse formulations and applications.
Cost-Effectiveness
From an economic perspective, sorbic acid offers significant advantages. Its high potency at low concentrations, typically requiring only 0.1% to 0.2% in formulations, translates to cost savings in raw materials. Additionally, its stability during processing and storage reduces waste and extends product shelf life, contributing to overall manufacturing efficiency.
Sensory Neutrality
A principal advantage of sorbic acid lies in its organoleptic properties. Unlike some preservatives, it imparts minimal taste or odor to final products when used at recommended concentrations. This neutrality makes it particularly valuable in food applications where maintaining the original product characteristics is crucial.
Processing Compatibility
Sorbic acid demonstrates excellent compatibility with various manufacturing processes. Its stability during heat treatment, resistance to pH changes, and compatibility with common ingredients facilitate seamless integration into existing production methods. This adaptability reduces the need for process modifications and associated costs.
Environmental Considerations
The environmental profile of sorbic acid presents another significant benefit. Its biodegradability and natural occurrence mean it does not persist in the environment, aligning with growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible ingredients. This characteristic makes it an attractive option for companies focused on sustainable practices.
The multifaceted benefits of sorbic acid demonstrate its value as a preservative solution in contemporary manufacturing.
Sorbic Acid Used in Food
A Food Preservative for Fruits and Vegetables
This food preservative is made from the following ingredients by weight: Sodium ascorbate,15 parts; Polylysine hydrochloride, 7 parts; Succinic acid, 25 parts; Double-layer microcapsules with encapsulation, 15 parts; Sucrose fatty acid esters, 13 parts; Glucono-delta-lactone, 42 parts; Sorbic acid, 10 parts; Dehydroacetic acid, 7 parts.
The preparation method includes the following steps:
According to the weight ratio, L-ascorbic acid sodium, polylysine hydrochloride, succinic acid, double-layer microcapsules with encapsulation, sucrose fatty acid esters, glucono-delta-lactone, sorbic acid, and dehydroacetic acid are added to a mixer and stirred at room temperature for 3 hours to obtain the finished product.
In conclusion, sorbic acid represents a cornerstone of modern preservation technology. Its unique combination of safety, effectiveness, and processing advantages continues to make it an essential ingredient across various industries. As a bulk sorbic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of sorbic acid at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.