Ingredient · E282

Preservative: E282

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add calcium propionate to foods to prevent the growth of mold and extend …

What is Preservative: E282?

Calcium propionate is a salt of propionic acid, a naturally occurring substance. It is produced industrially by reacting calcium hydroxide with propionic acid. It appears as a white powder or crystals.

Is Preservative: E282 vegan?

Preservative: E282 is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Preservative: E282 gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Preservative: E282 a major allergen?

Calcium propionate is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens.

What is Preservative: E282 used for?

Manufacturers add calcium propionate to foods to prevent the growth of mold and extend shelf life.

Is Preservative: E282 safe?

In the United States, calcium propionate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add calcium propionate to foods to prevent the growth of mold and extend shelf life. It is commonly found in baked goods, such as bread, cakes, and pastries, as well as some cheeses and processed meats.

Health notes

In the United States, calcium propionate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. It is also approved in the European Union. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated calcium propionate. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have explored potential links between propionates and behavioral issues in sensitive individuals, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive.

Allergen info

Calcium propionate is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Preservative: E282

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.