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E282Caution

Calcium propionate

Group: Preservatives

Harm level3 of 5In moderation

In plain words

It is a preservative that prevents mould, mainly in baked goods. You find it in packaged bread, toast, rolls and some cakes.

Where you find it: packaged sliced bread, toast bread, baked goods

Our recommendation

No need to avoid it completely, but where possible prefer fresh bread without preservatives, especially for children.

Possible risks and effects

  • Possible effect on glucose metabolism; evidence is limited.
  • Irritability and sleep problems have been reported in some children; evidence is weak.

For experts

Calcium propionate is the calcium salt of propionic acid, a short-chain fatty acid also formed naturally in the colon and in Swiss-type cheese. It inhibits moulds and rope-forming bacteria in bread while barely affecting yeast. EFSA re-evaluated propionates in 2014 and saw no need for a numerical ADI; some small studies have looked at effects on glucose and hormone levels or on children's behaviour, but the evidence is limited and inconsistent.

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More from this group

E211Sodium benzoateE249Potassium nitriteE250Sodium nitriteE210Benzoic acidE220Sulphur dioxideE223Sodium metabisulphiteE224Potassium metabisulphiteE251Sodium nitrate

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.