sorbate

[ sawr-beyt, -bit ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a sorbed sorb substance.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sorbate¹

First recorded in 1925–30; sorb ² + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Common additives like sugar, salt, vinegar and alcohol have been used as preservatives for centuries, but modern-day food labels now reveal more unfamiliar ingredients such as sodium benzoate, calcium propionate, and potassium sorbate.

From Science Daily

At issue is the labeling of canisters of grated Parmesan cheese that also contain cellulose to prevent caking or potassium sorbate to prevent mold.

From Seattle Times

But they also contain potassium sorbate, a preservative that prolongs shelf life and prohibits the growth of many molds and yeasts.

From New York Times

Workers combine it in an industrial mixer with brown sugar syrup, water, potassium sorbate and guar gum, to produce a damp, caramel-colored powder.

From New York Times

What shouldn’t be celebrated, he said, is packaged hummus filled with preservatives like potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate or citric acid.

From Washington Post