Sodium Proponate
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What it is
Sodium propionate is a salt of propionic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. It is produced industrially by reacting propionic acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. It appears as a white crystalline powder.
Why it's used
Sodium propionate is primarily used as a preservative to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria in baked goods. This helps extend the shelf life of products like cakes, cupcakes, and snack cakes. It is also sometimes used in tortillas and candies.
Health notes
In the U.S., sodium propionate is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is approved as a preservative in many food products. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium propionate and established safety guidelines. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects.
Allergen info
Sodium propionate is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.