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Propionate(E280-E283)

Level 2 — Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Propionate is a preservative — Approved preservative in bread and other flour products to inhibit mold

What it does

Approved preservative in bread and other flour products to inhibit mold

Where you'll see it

breads, biscuits, cakes, pastries, flour products; calcium propionate most common in bread

What the research says

5-10% of population may have food sensitivities; 30-40% of those may be affected by propionate (but always in conjunction with other chemical sensitivities). Otherwise low concern.

Benefits

Naturally produced in human intestines from dietary fiber fermentation. Inhibits mold growth allowing fresh bread storage. Calcium propionate adds calcium.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • EU: approved

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Formed every day in our intestines when dietary fiber is fermented. It is subsequently absorbed into the bloodstream