Sorbic Acid - White Crystals, Melting Point 134.5°c | Soluble In Hot Water, Combustible, Severe Health Irritant

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: White powder or crystals. Melting point 134.5A C. Slightly acidic and astringent taste with a faint odor.

Air & Water Reactions :
Soluble in hot water [Handbook of Chemistry and Physics]. May be sensitive to exposure to air and heat. The dust may become explosive, particularly when mixed with free-radical initiators or oxidizing agents. (NTP, 1992).
Fire Hazard
This chemical is combustible. (NTP, 1992)
Health Hazard
SYMPTOMS: This compound may cause severe irritation. High concentrations are extremely destructive to tissues of the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, skin and eyes. The greatest danger from ingestion of large quantities of this compound (2 g/kg) is intestinal obstruction. Aspiration or inhalation could cause chemical pneumonitis. Implantation will cause a foreign body reaction. A case of contact sensitivity has been reported.

ACUTE/CHRONIC HAZARDS: This compound is a severe irritant. It is harmful if swallowed or inhaled. High concentrations are extremely destructive to tissues of the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, skin and eyes. When heated to decomposition, this compound may emit toxic fumes of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. It may produce aldehydes. It may also emit acrid smoke and irritating fumes. (NTP, 1992)