Potassium sorbate is the common name for potassium (2E,4E)-2,4-hexadienoate. The main use of potassium sorbate is as food additive (E 202) as mold and yeast inhibitor. Potassium sorbate (E 202) is used as a antimicrobial and fungistatic agent and preservative in foods, especially cheeses (unripen, ripened and whey cheese and cheese products), citrus fruits, chewing gum, processed potato products, potato gnocchi, meat pâté, processed meat, processed fish, processed eggs (dehydrated and concentrated frozen eggs), table-top sweeteners in liquid form, protein products, dietary foods for weight control, salads, fruit nectars, beer, wine, fruit wine and made wine, mead, aromatized wines and aromatized wine-based drinks and cocktails, potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks, desserts and food supplements and processed nuts. Potassium sorbate has been also used as medication and in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Potassium sorbate is also approved as a biocidal active substance.
Beyond operational efficiency and environmental safety, the mining chemicals industry also has economic implications. The global demand for mining chemicals is driven by the rising consumption of metals and minerals across various sectors, including construction, electronics, and automotive industries. Increasing urbanization and technological advancements further contribute to this demand, prompting further investments in mining operations and technologies.