Which of the following is a food chemical used in processing?

Sorbates are a family of food preservatives that are commonly used in food processing to inhibit the growth of mold, yeast, and other fungi. This is particularly important in the food industry as it helps extend the shelf life of products, maintains quality, and ensures safety for consumers. Sorbates can be found in a variety of food items, including baked goods, beverages, and dairy products, making them a vital chemical in processing.

In contrast, histamines are compounds involved in immune responses and can be found in certain foods, particularly those that are fermented or aged, but they are not used as processing chemicals. Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat bacterial infections in humans and animals and are not used as food chemicals in the processing of food. Growth hormones are substances that can be used to enhance the growth of livestock, but they are not categorized as food chemicals for processing purposes in the same context as sorbates.