Sorbic acid is an unsaturated carboxylic acid with two double bonds. These bonds are located on the 2nd and 4th carbon in the chain, hence its chemical name 2,4-hexadienoic acid.

It comes in the form of a colorless acicular crystal or a white crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in water and sublimes easily.

Sorbic acid is widely used as a food ingredient or food additive in our daily life. Sorbic acid and potassium sorbate are the most commonly used preservatives in the world. They have high antibacterial properties, inhibit the growth and reproduction of mold, and inhibit the growth of microorganisms. It is widely used in preserving food such as cheese, yogurt and other dairy products, snacks, drinks, juices, jams and pickles.