Calcium Propionate
Calcium Propionate is the calcium salt of propionic acid, appearing as a white, crystalline powder or granules with a slightly salty taste and low odor. It is highly soluble in water and used primarily as a food preservative and mold inhibitor. Calcium Propionate inhibits the growth of mold, bacteria, and fungi, making it especially valuable in baked goods, dairy products, and animal feed to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage. It also finds application in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics as a preservative and antimicrobial agent.
Calcium Propionate Uses
Uses
Primary Uses
- Food Industry
- Widely used as a preservative in bread, baked goods, and other flour-based products to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
- Used in processed cheese and dairy products to inhibit fungal contamination and extend shelf life.
- Added to animal feed to prevent mold and bacterial spoilage, ensuring feed quality and safety.
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Employed as a preservative in various pharmaceutical formulations to prevent microbial contamination.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care
- Used as a preservative in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic products to maintain microbial stability.
Secondary Uses
- Agriculture
- Utilized as a feed additive to improve silage quality and prevent spoilage during storage.
- Industrial Applications
- Occasionally used in adhesives and paper products as a mold inhibitor.
- Research
- Studied for its antimicrobial properties and potential applications in food safety and preservation technologies.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium propanoate
- Common/Trade Name: Calcium Propionate
- CAS Number: 4075-81-4
- HS Code: 2915.22.00
- Molecular Formula: C6H10CaO4
- Synonyms:
- Calcium propanoate
- E282 (food additive code)
- Propionic acid calcium salt
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder or granules
- Color & Odor: White; slight odor typical of propionates
- Melting Point: 250–265°C (decomposes)
- Density: Approximately 1.5 g/cm³
- Solubility: Soluble in water (approximately 55 g/100 mL at 20°C); insoluble in ethanol
- pH (aqueous solution): Slightly alkaline (pH ~6.5–8.5)
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; sensitive to strong acids and high temperatures
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; generally recognized as safe (GRAS) in food use
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA/ACGIH limits; avoid inhalation of dust
- Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; large doses may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation
- Reactivity: Stable; avoid reaction with strong oxidizers and acids
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and incompatible substances
- Container Type: Airtight containers such as plastic or coated metal drums
- Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
- Special Handling: Use PPE when handling powder; avoid dust generation and inhalation
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved food additive (E282) for use as a preservative in many countries
- EFSA: Approved as a food preservative in the European Union
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local regulations for non-hazardous waste
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life; biodegradable
- Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Biodegradable in the environment
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Gloves
- Protective goggles
- Dust mask or respirator if dust generation is possible
- Protective clothing
Handling Measures:
- Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged skin contact
- Work in well-ventilated areas
- Use local exhaust ventilation if dust is generated
Storage Measures:
- Keep container tightly closed
- Protect from moisture and humidity
- Store away from acids and strong oxidizing agents
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large amounts are ingested or symptoms develop
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible under fire conditions
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if necessary
Decomposition Products: May emit carbon oxides and calcium oxides under fire conditions