Conclusion
It is widely used in the personal care and cosmetic industries to inhibit microbial growth and hence extend the shelf life of these products. One of the major advantages of potassium sorbate is its wide pH range, i.e between 2 - 6.5. The typical concentration of potassium sorbate that is commonly used in the cosmetic industry is between 0.15% - 0.3% when it is used alone or 0.1% - 0.2% when it is used in combination with other preservatives.
E901 is considered a non-toxic and inert substance; thus, it poses minimal health risks when consumed in moderate amounts. Being derived from a natural source, beeswax contains several beneficial compounds, including hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and alcohols, which may exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, individuals with allergies to bee products should approach E901 with caution and consult medical professionals before consumption.