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Sodium propionate

Sodium propionate suppliers and sourcing guide

Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid. It is made by neutralizing propionic acid with sodium hydroxide and drying the result to colorless crystals or a granular powder that readily absorbs moisture. It is used as a mold inhibitor in chemically leavened baked goods such as cakes and tortillas, where calcium salts can interfere with leavening, and in cheese, fillings and meat products.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
sodium propanoate · E281 · propanoic acid sodium salt
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of sodium propionate

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Granular

    Crystalline granules, the most common form.

  • Powder

    Fine powder for dry blends.

  • Encapsulated

    Coated grades that delay release in dough.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Assay
Sodium propionate content on a dried basis by titration, against FCC or supplier limits.
Loss on drying
Moisture content, important because the salt is deliquescent.
Alkalinity
A test for free alkali left from neutralization.
Water-insoluble matter
Insoluble residue, a purity check.
Lead and heavy metals
Lead and other metals by ICP-MS.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Sodium propionate is deliquescent, so it must be kept in tightly sealed, moisture-barrier packaging in a cool, dry place, and opened bags should be resealed at once. Store it away from odor-sensitive ingredients. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

Lots and expiry dates

Record assay and moisture for each lot, since moisture pickup lowers the dose delivered per kilogram. Rotate FEFO.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Sodium propionate suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking sodium propionate suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of sodium propionate can brands buy?

Common forms include granular, powder and encapsulated. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for sodium propionate include?

Expect assay, loss on drying, alkalinity, water-insoluble matter and lead and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should sodium propionate be stored?

Sodium propionate is deliquescent, so it must be kept in tightly sealed, moisture-barrier packaging in a cool, dry place, and opened bags should be resealed at once. Store it away from odor-sensitive ingredients. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with retest for older stock.

What is the regulatory status of sodium propionate?

21 CFR 184.1784 affirms sodium propionate as GRAS for use as an antimicrobial agent and flavoring agent in listed foods, including baked goods, cheeses, confections, jams and jellies, meat products and soft candy. Health Canada's List of Permitted Preservatives includes sodium propionate for bread.

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