Calcium Propionate

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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.

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Category: Preservatives(food) Tags: Bakery and bread preservative, Calcium propionate, Dairy and processed food preservation, Feed additive in animal nutrition, Food-grade preservative, Mold inhibitor in food, White crystalline powder

Description

Table of Contents

Calcium Propionate

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.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

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