A method for reducing sorbic acid precipitation during manufacture and storage of stable preserved syrup. A microemulsion of a sorbic acid compound, a non-aqueous solvent, and a surfactant is made in water. Syrup ingredients are added to a bulk quantity of liquid, and the microemulsion is added to the liquid. In another aspect, a sorbic acid compound is dissolved in an oil-based ingredient of the syrup. Syrup ingredients are added to a bulk quantity of liquid, and a sorbic acid compound-containing oil-based ingredient is added to the liquid. A further aspect is directed to a method for reducing sorbic acid precipitation during manufacture and storage of stable preserved syrup. A sorbic acid compound and polysorbate are dissolved in water. Syrup ingredients are added to a bulk quantity of liquid, and a sorbic acid compound-containing fluid is added to the liquid.