Leuconostoc/radish Root Ferment Filtrate

Leuconostoc/radish root ferment filtrate is a preservative created by fermenting Raphanus sativus (radish) roots with the microorganism, Leuconostoc, a bacteria from lactic acid. Small amounts (typically 0.5%) are used in cosmetics to protect them from a wide range of harmful substances that can contaminate the product and alter its effectiveness. Interestingly, the two compounds believed to be responsible for this ingredient’s preservative action are salicylic acid and an ammonium salt. It seems neither comes from fermentation, but is present because these ingredients are used in soil to manage the growth of radishes, ensuring consistent sizes and coloration.

See: Preservatives, Lactic Acid