Calcium Propionate

Calcium Propionate
Alias: Calcium Propanoate/Calcium Propionate Salt
English Name: Calcium Propionate
Molecular Weight: 186.22
Molecular Formula: 2(C3H5O2)·Ca /C₆H₁₀CaO₄
CAS Number: 4075-81-4
EINECS Number: 223-795-8
pH Value: 7.0-9.0 (10% aqueous solution)
Appearance: White granules or powder
Physicochemical Properties: Odorless or slightly propionic acid odor, deliquescent in moist air. The monohydrate is colorless monoclinic plate-like crystals. Easily soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol.

Applications
Preservation in Flour Products:
Bread, Pastries: Adding calcium propionate can inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria, extend shelf life, and maintain the taste and appearance of the product. The general addition amount is 0.1%~0.3% (based on flour weight).
Noodles, Dumpling Wrappers: Adding calcium propionate to flour products can prevent mildew during storage without affecting the fermentation and processing properties of the dough.
Preservation in Dairy Products:
Cheese, Yogurt: Calcium propionate can inhibit the growth of mold and yeast in dairy products, preventing spoilage. The addition amount is typically 0.05%~0.15%.
Other Foods:
Soy Sauce, Vinegar: Adding calcium propionate to condiments can prevent microbial contamination and extend shelf life.
Canned Foods, Pickles: Used as one of the preservatives, combined with other preservatives to enhance the preservative effect.
(II) Application in the Feed Industry
Feed Preservation: Calcium propionate can be used as a preservative in feed to inhibit mold growth, prevent feed spoilage, and reduce nutrient loss. Especially in humid environments, adding calcium propionate can effectively extend the shelf life of feed.
Promoting Animal Growth: Calcium propionate dissociates into propionic acid and calcium ions in animals. Propionic acid is an important energy source in the rumen of ruminants, which can be absorbed and utilized by animals to promote growth; calcium ions are essential elements for the development of animal bones and teeth.
(III) Application in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Pharmaceutical Excipient: Calcium propionate can be used as a pharmaceutical excipient in the preparation of some topical and oral formulations, serving as a preservative and stabilizer.
(IV) Other Uses
Coatings, Adhesives: Adding calcium propionate to coatings and adhesives can inhibit microbial growth and prevent product mildew and spoilage.
Cosmetics: As a preservative in cosmetics, calcium propionate can be used in products such as lotions and creams to maintain product stability and safety.