Sorbic Acid
Sorbic acid is a polyunsaturated fat first isolated from the oil of the unripened rowan berry in 1959
by A.W. Hoffman. Sorbic acid is mainly used in industry as a mold and yeast inhibitor, fungistatic
agent for foods, especially cheeses.  It is a synthetic substance that  can cause contact dermatitis,
as has been frequently reported with the use of topical medicaments such as corticosteroid creams
that contain this preservative
.


Sorbic acid has caused reduced growth rates in rats, and caused liver problems, including
hepatoma and reduced glutathione levels. (Mutat Res. 1984 Aug;130(4):267-72
). In one study
large amounts fed to rats caused liver tumors.
(Cancer Lett. 1980 Jun; 9(4):299-304).