Influence of potassium sorbate on the growth of yeasts and moulds in yogurt

Abstract

Yeasts and moulds are little affected by low pH and may cause spoilage of yogurt during storage. In the present study, potassium sorbate was added as a preservative in concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.2%. The unpreserved yogurt showed unfavourable characteristics: yeast and mould counts and acidity increased. The addition of potassium sorbate, however, inhibited yeast and mould levels, with normal characteristic properties extending more than 14 days. Potassium sorbate is thus seen as valuable for preserving yogurt.