Freshness Preserved By Calcium Propionate

Calcium propionate is a salt of propionic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in some foods. It is manufactured commercially by reacting propionic acid with calcium hydroxide. It is commonly used as a food additive.

Calcium propionate is primarily used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria in baked goods and other foods. It helps extend shelf life without significantly altering taste or texture. It is frequently found in bread, cakes, tortillas, and other bakery products.

In the U.S., calcium propionate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated its safety. Studies on calcium propionate have not shown adverse effects at typical consumption levels. Some research has explored its potential effects on behavior in children, but evidence is mixed and not conclusive.