Sodium Propionate
This is what the ingredient is.
Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid found in dairy products.
Here is why it shows up on the label.
Used as a mold inhibitor in baked goods, particularly bread and rolls. Effective against rope-forming bacteria.
Here is what food agencies say.
FDA GRAS with no specified limits. Approved in EU, Canada, and most countries worldwide.
Here is what research has found.
an FAO/WHO expert committee reviewed safety data. Propionic acid is a normal metabolite in the human body. Studies in Food Microbiology confirm antifungal properties.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
Generally safe. Some anecdotal reports link propionates to behavioral issues in children, though scientific evidence is limited.
Sources
- FDA GRAS List
- JECFA Evaluation
- Food Microbiology Journal
How to read this page
We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.