INS 200 is sorbic acid, a preservative that stops moulds and yeasts from growing in food. It is one of the most-used preservatives in Indian bakery, dairy, and packaged ready-to-eat items. It is generally vegan and is permitted by FSSAI for specified food categories.
INS 200 is sorbic acid, a preservative that stops moulds and yeasts from growing in food. It is one of the most-used preservatives in Indian bakery, dairy, and packaged ready-to-eat items.
Brands use it because a small amount keeps cakes, cheese spreads, chutneys, and pickles from going off on the shelf without affecting taste or smell. It works best in foods that are slightly acidic, which is why you see it in pickles and fruit drinks.
INS 200 commonly shows up on Indian packets in these categories:
Sorbic acid is produced by chemical synthesis. No animal product is used in its manufacture.
FSSAI: Permitted by FSSAI as a preservative under Schedule I of the FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011 for specified food categories with category-specific upper limits, often expressed as sorbic acid equivalents.
JECFA: Group ADI 0-25 mg/kg body weight for sorbic acid and its calcium, potassium, and sodium salts, established at the 17th JECFA (1973) and maintained in subsequent reviews.
On packets, in recipes, and in conversation, INS 200 is also called:
Last verified: 2026-04-29.