E282: Calcium propionate
What is E282?
Calcium propionate (E282) is the calcium salt of propionic acid, a short-chain fatty acid. Propionic acid occurs naturally in some foods, notably Swiss-type cheeses, where it is produced by bacteria.
Origin and production
Calcium propionate for food use is manufactured by reacting propionic acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate.
Why is it used?
It is a preservative that is particularly effective against moulds and the bacteria that cause 'rope' in bread. It is widely used in packaged sliced bread, flatbreads, cakes and bakery products, as it does not interfere much with yeast fermentation.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Calcium propionate is synthesised without animal ingredients and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher issue.
Safety and regulation
Calcium propionate is authorised as a preservative in the EU, mainly for bread and bakery products, with maximum levels. EFSA re-evaluated propionates and did not see a need to set a numerical acceptable daily intake.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E282
