Is Sodium Propionate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Sodium Propionate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (preservative).
Also called E281. (E281) CAS 137-40-6.
Other names: E281, sodium propanoate, INS 281
Is Sodium Propionate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Thomas' English Muffins, Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread, Sara Lee Bread, Brownberry Bread, Roman Meal Bread |
| CAS number | 137-40-6 |
What is Sodium Propionate?
Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid. Like calcium propionate (E282), it is used as an antimicrobial preservative to prevent mold and bacterial spoilage in bread and baked goods. It is also used in poultry and animal feed applications.
Why is Sodium Propionate used in food?
Inhibits mold and bacterial spoilage in baked goods and some processed foods; similar function to calcium propionate but provides sodium instead of calcium.
Is Sodium Propionate dangerous? Documented risks
The health profile is essentially the same as calcium propionate. The 2019 Science Translational Medicine study implicating propionate in metabolic changes applies to all propionate salts. Behavioral sensitivity concerns that have been anecdotally reported with calcium propionate may similarly apply. At regulated use levels, sodium propionate is considered safe by global regulatory agencies.
Common US products containing Sodium Propionate
- Thomas' English Muffins
- Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread
- Sara Lee Bread
- Brownberry Bread
- Roman Meal Bread
How to avoid Sodium Propionate: safer alternatives
Vinegar, natamycin, and sourdough fermentation provide alternative preservation for baked goods.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium Propionate
What is the difference between sodium propionate and calcium propionate?
Both are salts of propionic acid with similar antimicrobial functions; calcium propionate also adds calcium while sodium propionate adds sodium.
Is sodium propionate safe?
Approved globally; animal studies raised metabolic concerns at higher doses but typical dietary exposure is far below concern levels.
What foods contain sodium propionate?
Commercial breads, English muffins, tortillas, and some pastries.
Is sodium propionate the same as vinegar?
No, but both are organic acid-based preservatives. Vinegar (acetic acid) has a different chemical structure and a longer history of use.
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Sources
- Re-evaluation of propionic acid (E 280), sodium propionate (E 281), calcium propionate (E 282) — EFSA
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1784 — Sodium propionate — FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.