Why have we added potassium Sorbate?

When initially creating Blue River Diets we made the decision to exclude preservatives to attempt to keep the diet as natural as we could. After launch, the gecko keeping community voiced that it was important for them to be able to leave food in their enclosures for over 24 hours. Although this is still not something that we recommend we listened and took steps to ensure those that would like to do so can do it with added piece of mind.

Potassium sorbate is the potassium salt of sorbic acid, which occurs naturally in some fruits, particularly the berries of the rowan tree (Sorbus aucuparia). While sorbic acid itself is a natural compound, potassium sorbate is typically manufactured through chemical processes for commercial use.

Although potassium sorbate is synthetically produced, it is often considered a “nature-identical” compound. This means that the potassium sorbate used in our diets has the same chemical structure as sorbic acid found in nature, despite being synthesized in a lab. It is widely accepted for use in natural and organic products because of its non-toxic nature and close relation to a naturally found compound. This and the reasons below helped us to the realisation that potassium sorbate was the correct preservative for our diets.

Prevents Spoilage

Potassium sorbate inhibits the growth of mould, yeast, and some bacteria, extending the shelf life of crested gecko MRP. This is particularly important for a powder-based product that may be exposed to moisture when mixed with water, as it prevents the growth of harmful microbes that could spoil the food or cause health issues in geckos.

Maintains Nutritional Quality

By preventing microbial growth, potassium sorbate helps maintain the nutritional integrity of our diets. Without it, the product could degrade over time, losing valuable nutrients and possibly becoming unsafe to consume. This ensures that the MRP provides consistent nutrition throughout its shelf life.

Safe and Effective at Low Concentrations

Potassium sorbate is effective in very low concentrations, which means it can be added to crested gecko diets without impacting the taste, smell, or texture of the food. It’s considered safe for reptiles, providing effective preservation without harming the gecko.

Non-Toxic and Safe

Potassium sorbate is widely regarded as a non-toxic and safe preservative for use in human and animal food products. It is metabolized by animals into harmless compounds (water and carbon dioxide), and its long history of use in the food industry supports its safety profile.

Helps Avoid Artificial Flavours or Colours

Since potassium sorbate helps keep the product fresh and mould-free, it allows us to avoid using additional artificial preservatives or additives. This aids us in our goal of providing a natural, healthy diet for crested geckos that don’t rely on artificial colours or flavours.

Stable in Powder Form

Potassium sorbate remains stable in powder-based diets, such as our diets, making it a practical choice for use in products that will be stored for long periods. This ensures that the preservative remains effective in our diets even in its dry, packaged form.