E200-E209 Sorbates

E200 is a Food Additive that is approved by the European Union (EU) and is used as a preservative in food and drink products.

E200 is also known by the common name sorbic acid, and by chemical names t-2, 4-hexadienoic acid and 2-propenylacrylic acid.

This chemical acts as a preservative by inhibiting the growth of yeasts and moulds.

At the same time, it does allow bacterial activity, such as in the cases of processed and non-processed cheeses.

E200 is sometimes used in the production of sweet wines, but can lead to 'off flavours'.