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The facts: Sodium Propionate is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Sodium Propionate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Thomas' English Muffins, Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread, Sara Lee Bread.
TL;DR: Sodium Propionate is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Thomas' English Muffins, Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread, Sara Lee Bread, Brownberry Bread, Roman Meal Bread |
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 Propionate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Sodium Propionate is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Thomas' English Muffins, Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread, Sara Lee Bread, Brownberry Bread, Roman Meal Bread. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Sodium Propionate.
Vinegar, natamycin, and sourdough fermentation provide alternative preservation for baked goods. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Sodium Propionate or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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