E280 · Propionic acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E280?
Propionic acid is a naturally occurring acid also produced by fermentation, used as a preservative to stop mold and some bacteria from growing in bread, baked goods, and cheese. It is present naturally in small amounts in dairy products like Swiss cheese. Regulatory bodies including the FDA and EFSA consider it safe at the levels used in food.
Also appears on labels as: Propionic acid, CH3CH2COOH, C3H6O2, E280, E 280, E-280, INS 280, Propanoic acid, Methylacetic acid, Ethylformic acid, Carboxyethane, Propan-1-oic acid.
What the evidence says
- Some early animal studies raised questions about behavioral effects at high doses, but this is not confirmed as a concern at normal dietary exposure.
- Rarely associated with migraine triggers or mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Is E280 safe?
Our overall verdict for E280 (Propionic acid) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E280 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Propionic acid — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E280 and why is it used?
Propionic acid is a naturally occurring acid also produced by fermentation, used as a preservative to stop mold and some bacteria from growing in bread, baked goods, and cheese. It is present naturally in small amounts in dairy products like Swiss cheese. Regulatory bodies including the FDA and EFSA consider it safe at the levels used in food.
Does E280 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Propionic acid.
Watch E280
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.