What is E281?
E281 is Sodium Propionate — the sodium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E281 (Sodium Propionate)?
E281 is the E-number for sodium 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 sodium salt of propionic acid. Like every E-number, E281 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 E281 in detail below.
Where is E281 found?
E281 is typically used in soft drinks, dried fruit, processed meats, sauces, baked goods and wine. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E281) or by its full name, sodium propionate. Common foods that may contain E281 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E281 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E281 safe?
E281 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 E281.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E281 vegan?
E281 is vegan. The sodium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E281 →Is E281 halal?
E281 is halal. The sodium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E281 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E281 in food?
E281 is Sodium Propionate — the sodium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E281 safe to eat?
Yes. E281 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E281 vegan?
E281 is vegan. The sodium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E281 halal?
E281 is halal. The sodium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).