Calcium propionate
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Calcium propionate is a white, lightweight, flaky crystalline substance or white powder—odorless or with a slight propionic acid scent—and remains stable under heat and light. It readily deliquesces when exposed to air, dissolving easily in water while exhibiting limited solubility in ethanol and diethyl ether, and being virtually insoluble in benzene and acetone. In products, calcium propionate releases free propionic acid, which effectively inhibits the growth of Aspergillus niger, aerobic spore-forming bacteria, and certain specific types of bacteria, thereby extending the shelf life of the product.
Calcium propionate has been widely used in food products due to its low cost and harmless nature for human consumption. When used in Western-style baked goods, it reacts with sodium bicarbonate—a common leavening agent—to form insoluble calcium carbonate, thereby reducing the production of CO₂. For this reason, sodium propionate is often recommended instead.
Molecular formula: C6H10CaO4•0–1H2O
Molecular weight: 186.22
Dosage: 2.5 g/kg (calculated as propionic acid), according to GB2760-2010
Usage: Dissolve a small amount in water, then apply or spray directly onto the product surface.
Quality standard: Meets the quality requirements of GB25548—2010.
Physicochemical Properties of Calcium Propionate
Content % Based on dry basis, %
≥98 Moisture 120°C, 2 hours %
≤9.5 Free acid Through experimentation
Through experimentation Free base Through experimentation
Through experimentation Fluoride, mg/kg ≤30
≤30 Arsenic % mg/kg ≤3
≤3 Heavy metals, mg/kg ≤10
≤10 Water-insoluble matter % ≤0.3
≤0.3 Iron, mg/kg % ≤50
≤50
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Calcium propionate
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