sorbic acid
Sorbic acid and potassium sorbate are common preservatives that inhibit molds and yeasts. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) assessed them as safe for cats and dogs within permitted levels (up to 5,000 mg/kg potassium sorbate in semi-moist foods). They are often wrongly described as especially risky for cats — it is benzoic acid (sodium benzoate), not sorbic acid, that cats handle poorly because of limited glucuronidation.
Other common names: potassium sorbate, calcium sorbate, 山梨酸, 山梨酸鉀, 山梨酸鈣, ソルビン酸, ソルビン酸カリウム, E200, E202
Want to track this over time? Try Snifflo
Snap a photo of the food/treat label — AI checks it against red/yellow-flagged ingredients before you buy.
Coming soon — app in the works
Related guides
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, veterinary literature.
For reference only, not medical advice. If poisoning is suspected, seek veterinary care immediately.