Potassium sorbate is widely used as a preservative in the food industry to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and fungi. It is commonly added to products like cheese, wine, yogurt, dried meats, and baked goods to extend shelf life. In personal care products, it helps maintain the stability of items such as creams, lotions, and shampoos by inhibiting microbial contamination. Additionally, it is used in pharmaceuticals to preserve the efficacy and safety of certain medications. Its effectiveness in low concentrations makes it a popular choice for maintaining product quality and safety.