What is E282?

๐ŸŸข SAFE
Calcium Propionate
Preservatives ยท Widely accepted as safe at normal food levels
๐ŸŒฑ Vegan Yes
๐Ÿฅš Vegetarian Yes
โ˜ช๏ธ Halal Halal
๐ŸŒด Palm Oil No

E282 is Calcium Propionate โ€” the calcium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.

What is E282 (Calcium Propionate)?

E282 is the E-number for calcium propionate, one of the preservatives group of food additives (E200โ€“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 โ€” 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.

Where is E282 found?

E282 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 (E282) or by its full name, calcium propionate. Common foods that may contain E282 include:

Full guide: foods containing E282 and how to spot it on labels โ†’

E282 is often searched by its common name โ€” see also: Is Calcium Propionate safe?

Is E282 safe?

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 โ€” no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority

Is E282 vegan?

E282 is vegan. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Full vegan status guide for E282 โ†’

Is E282 halal?

E282 is halal. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.

Full halal status guide for E282 โ†’

Frequently Asked Questions

What is E282 in food?

E282 is Calcium Propionate โ€” the calcium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.

Is E282 safe to eat?

Yes. E282 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.

Is E282 vegan?

E282 is vegan. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E282 halal?

E282 is halal. The calcium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.

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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

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