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Answer: Sodium Propionate is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Thomas' English Muffins, Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread, Sara Lee Bread.
TL;DR: Sodium Propionate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (preservative).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called E281. (E281) CAS 137-40-6.
Other names: E281, sodium propanoate, INS 281
| 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 |
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.
Inhibits mold and bacterial spoilage in baked goods and some processed foods; similar function to calcium propionate but provides sodium instead of calcium.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Sodium Propionatewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Vinegar, natamycin, and sourdough fermentation provide alternative preservation for baked goods.
Both are salts of propionic acid with similar antimicrobial functions; calcium propionate also adds calcium while sodium propionate adds sodium.
Approved globally; animal studies raised metabolic concerns at higher doses but typical dietary exposure is far below concern levels.
Commercial breads, English muffins, tortillas, and some pastries.
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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