Ingredient · E281

Preservatives Sodium Propionate

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add sodium propionate to foods primarily as a preservative to inhibit the growth …

What it is

Sodium propionate is a salt of propionic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in some foods. It is typically produced industrially by reacting propionic acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. It appears as a white crystalline powder.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add sodium propionate to foods primarily as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria. This helps extend the shelf life of baked goods. It is commonly found in cakes, cupcakes, snack cakes, cookies, and biscuits.

Health notes

In the United States, sodium propionate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated its safety and established guidelines for its use. Studies on animals have shown it to be safe at typical dietary levels. Some research has explored its potential role in metabolism, but more study is needed to understand any long-term effects.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Preservatives Sodium Propionate

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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.