Potassium propionate

Potassium propionate (CAS 327-62-8), also known by its food additive designation E283, is the potassium salt of propionic acid used as a preservative in food and agricultural applications.

It inhibits mold and bacterial growth, extending shelf life across a range of perishable products without the sodium load associated with sodium propionate alternatives.

In baked goods, E283 is applied to bread, cakes, and pastries to suppress mold development and extend retail shelf life. Feed manufacturers incorporate it into animal nutrition products.

This is particularly useful in poultry and swine feeds to control microbial contamination during storage and transport. Food processors handling dairy-adjacent products use it as a mold inhibitor.

It is ideal for processed cheese formulations where sodium content must be minimized. It also functions as a grain preservative in agricultural storage, protecting harvested crops from fungal spoilage.

Potassium propionate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules, with granular forms preferred in feed applications for ease of blending during the manufacturing process.

Standard grades include food-grade specifications aligned with FCC and E283 regulatory requirements. Technical-grade material is available for agricultural and non-food preservation uses.