Sodium Propionate
Sodium Propanoate, Propionic Acid Sodium Salt, Napropion, Mycoban
- CAS
- 137-40-6
- EC
- 205-290-4
- Food Code
- E281
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Animal Nutrition
Sodium Propionate (CAS 137-40-6) is the sodium salt of propionic acid, a preservative that appears as a white, hygroscopic crystalline powder or granules and inhibits mold and rope bacteria in bakery products, processed meats and animal feed, supporting commercial baking and dairy production. It appears as white, hygroscopic crystals or granules and acts effectively against mold and rope bacteria without altering pH levels significantly.
Functioning as a potent antimicrobial agent, it disrupts the metabolism of microorganisms, making it essential for commercial baking and dairy production.
Available in Food Grade (E281) and technical purities, this compound also serves as a critical energy source and preservative in animal feed formulations to prevent spoilage in grains and silage.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C3H6O2.Na |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 96.06 g/mol |
| Appearance | white powder |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Color | White |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. bland |
| Melting point | 289 °C |
| Density | 1.51[at 20°C] |
| Water solubility | 995 g/L (20 °C) |
| pH | 8-9.5 (10g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful, Environmental hazard |
| HS code | 29159000 |
| Grades available | Food Grade, Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Sodium Propionate
Applications
- Bakery Preservation:Used extensively in breads, cakes, and pastries to prevent mold growth and "rope" formation during storage.
- Animal Nutrition: Added to cattle and poultry feed as a mold inhibitor and to treat ketosis in dairy cows by acting as a glucose precursor.
- Processed Foods: Acts as a preservative in cheese products, processed meats, and casing to maintain freshness and safety.
- Pharmaceuticals: Utilized as an antifungal agent in topical powders and ointments for treating dermatological conditions.
Safety & Risks
While generally recognized as safe (GRAS), the pure substance acts as a Skin and Eye Irritant upon direct contact. Personnel should utilize standard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including Safety Goggles and Dust Masks, to avoid inhalation of fine particles during handling.
Packaging
• 500 kg / 1000 kg Big Bags
• Fiber Drums