2,4-Hexadienoicacid, anhydride
- CAS No.
- 13390-06-2
- Chemical Name:
- 2,4-Hexadienoicacid, anhydride
- Synonyms
- 2,4-Hexadienoicacid, anhydride;2,4-Hexadienoic acid, 1,1'-anhydride, (2E,2'E,4E,4'E)-
- CBNumber:
- CB42741570
- Molecular Formula:
- C12H14O3
- Molecular Weight:
- 206.24
- MDL Number:
- MOL File:
- 13390-06-2.mol
2,4-Hexadienoicacid, anhydride Chemical Properties,Uses,Production
Uses
Sorbic acid and its potassium salt, collectively called sorbates, are used primarily in a wide range of food and feed products and to a lesser extent in certain cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and tobacco products. There are limited applications of the calcium and sodium salts, but the acid and its potassium salt are used almost exclusively.
Since the first demonstration of antimicrobial activity in the 1940s, sorbates have been shown to inhibit a wide spectrum of yeasts, molds, and bacteria, including most foodborne pathogens. As bacterial inhibitors, sorbates are least effective against lactic acid bacteria. Although this can be a problem for foods that suffer from lactic spoilage, it has proven to be a positive point in cases of yeast and mold suppression during lactic fermentations. The effectiveness of sorbates can be influenced by a number of factors, including pH, microbial load, water activity, temperature, and atmosphere. The antimicrobial activity of sorbates has been reviewed.
Production Methods
Sorbic acid anhydride can be prepared by heating the polyester of 3-hydroxy-4-hexenoic acid with sorboyl chloride or by reaction of sorbic acid with oxalyl chloride. Preparation of the esters of sorbic acid must be controlled to prevent oxidation and polymerization. The lower sorbic acid esters have a pleasant odor.