Calcium Propionate

Definition

A additive added to many foods, especially baked goods, as a preservative that extends shelf life and prevents the growth of mold. It is a naturally occurring salt formed by a reaction between calcium hydroxide and propionic acid.

Also Known As

Propionic Acid, Propionate

Health Impact

Although it has been studied with little side effects in most people, in rare cases, calcium propionate can cause headaches or migraines in certain people. It has also been linked to the increase in the body's production of insulin and glucagon, which stimulate glucose release and can lead to insulin resistance. Finally, there have been reported issues in children where some experienced irritability, restlessness, reduced attention span, an sleep issues when consuming calcium propionate.

Sources

• Effects of 3300 del A-1061 Ter BRCA1 frameshift mutation and calcium propionate on oxidative stress and breast carcinogenesis

  Pub Med

• Controlled trial of cumulative behavioural effects of a common bread preservative

  Pub Med

• The short-chain fatty acid propionate increases glucagon and FABP4 production, impairing insulin action in mice and humans

  Pub Med

• Food ingredients under the microscope

  Harvard Health Publishing