Is Calcium Propionate Safe?
Calcium Propionate is the additive E282 — the calcium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is Calcium Propionate safe to eat?
E282 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E282.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Calcium Propionate?
E282 is the E-number for calcium propionate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200–E299). Additives in this group prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts. The calcium salt of propionic acid. Like every E-number, E282 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E282 in detail below.
What foods contain Calcium Propionate?
E282 (Calcium Propionate) is typically found in:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calcium Propionate bad for you?
Yes. E282 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Calcium Propionate vegan?
E282 is vegan. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Calcium Propionate halal?
E282 is halal. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E282 (Calcium Propionate) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).