What is E283?
E283 is Potassium Propionate — the potassium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
What is E283 (Potassium Propionate)?
E283 is the E-number for potassium 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 potassium salt of propionic acid. Like every E-number, E283 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 E283 in detail below.
Where is E283 found?
E283 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 (E283) or by its full name, potassium propionate. Common foods that may contain E283 include:
- Soft drinks
- Dried fruit
- Processed meats
- Sauces
- Baked goods and wine
Full guide: foods containing E283 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E283 safe?
E283 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 E283.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E283 vegan?
E283 is vegan. The potassium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E283 →Is E283 halal?
E283 is halal. The potassium salt of propionic acid, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E283 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E283 in food?
E283 is Potassium Propionate — the potassium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage by stopping the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeasts.
Is E283 safe to eat?
Yes. E283 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E283 vegan?
E283 is vegan. The potassium salt of propionic acid, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E283 halal?
E283 is halal. The potassium 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).