Sodium Propionate
Also known as: E281
Sodium propionate (E281) is approved by FDA (GRAS) and EFSA. EFSA's 2014 re-evaluation and 2016 extension review concluded there are no safety concerns from current authorised use levels.
What it is
Sodium propionate (E281), the sodium salt of propionic acid.
Antimicrobial preservative, particularly against mold and rope bacteria.
Why it's flagged
- Some emerging research on metabolic effects of propionate (preliminary)
What regulators actually say
"There is no safety concern for the consumer from the maximum concentrations of propionic acid and its salts at their current authorised uses and use levels as food additives."
"The proposed extension of use of sodium propionate (E 281) would not be of safety concern."
"Sodium propionate is GRAS as a direct human food ingredient."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS (21 CFR 184.1784).
European Union — EFSA
Authorised E281; no safety concerns at current uses (EFSA 2014, 2016).
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