Does cottage cheese contain preservatives that make it last longer?

Pasteurization, packaging innovations, use of carbon dioxide in the creamy dressing applied to the curds, and the addition of antimicrobial agents have minimized the need for artificial preservatives. However, some brands of commercial cottage cheese do contain the artificial preservative potassium sorbate, in combination with the natural antimicrobial Natamycin, to inhibit mold, yeast, and spoilage bacteria, helping extend shelf life.
 
Source(s):
Nelson-Jameson (dairy industry supplier) Product Catalog
Free Patents Online: “Natamycin and chemical preservatives in foods and method of making”