Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of potassium sorbate for dogs and cats

The feed additive consists of pure potassium sorbate and it is intended to be used as a preservative in semi-moist feed for dogs and cats at a proposed concentration of 5 000 mg/kg feed. Potassium sorbate is considered safe for both dogs and cats at a maximum content of 5 000 mg/kg semi-moist complete feed, based on the limited data available in public literature. Potassium sorbate is a skin and eye irritant and a potential irritant of the respiratory tract. Potassium sorbate is added to food with a wide range of moisture content as preservative. Similar preservative effects can be expected in semi-moist feed for dogs and cats.