Sodium propanoate or sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid which has the chemical formula Na(C2H5COO). This white crystalline solid is deliquescent in moist air. Reactions It is produced by the reaction of propionic acid and sodium carbonate or sodium hydroxide. Uses It is used as a food preservative and is represented by the food labeling E number E281 in Europe; it is used primarily as a mold inhibitor in bakery products. It is approved for use as a food additive in the EU, USA and Australia and New Zealand (where it is listed by its INS number 281). See also Propionic acid, E 280 Calcium propionate, E 282 Potassium propionate, E 283 References External links Sodium propanoate at Sci-toys.com Propionates Organic sodium salts E-number additives