Calcium propionate

Calcium propionate (CAS 4075-81-4) is the calcium salt of propionic acid, commercially available under trade names including Bioban-C and MAGGRAN CPR. It carries no E-number designation in the EU but is recognised as a permitted preservative in food applications under specific regulatory frameworks across global markets.

In baked goods, calcium propionate inhibits mould and rope-forming bacteria by disrupting microbial cell metabolism at low concentrations, extending shelf life without affecting yeast activity. In animal feed formulations, it acts as both a preservative and a calcium source, while in pharmaceutical manufacturing it functions as a buffering agent to stabilise pH-sensitive formulations.

Calcium propionate is sourced in food-grade and feed-grade specifications, with compliance to FCC and relevant REACH registration requirements. It is supplied as a white crystalline powder in 25 kg bags or bulk quantities. Procurement teams should confirm grade suitability against FCC or Ph.Eur. standards depending on the target application.