Propionic Acid丨CAS 79-09-4

1. Food and Feed Preservation

Propionic acid and its salts (mainly calcium and sodium propionate) are extensively used as preservatives in:

Bakery products (bread, cakes, pastries) to inhibit mold and bacterial growth.

Cheese and other dairy products to prolong shelf life.

Animal feed (especially poultry and cattle) to prevent mold contamination and nutrient loss.

Regulatory approvals:
Propionic acid is approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA (USA), EFSA (Europe), and China's GB standards as a food-grade preservative.

2. Agriculture and Animal Husbandry

Silage preservation: Propionic acid is added to silage to prevent spoilage caused by molds and yeasts, improving the nutritional quality of feed.

Grain storage: Helps protect harvested grains (corn, wheat, etc.) during storage from microbial degradation.

Animal health: Acts as a growth promoter and gut stabilizer in ruminants by regulating pH levels and controlling pathogenic bacteria.

3. Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Industry

Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds such as:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)

Antifungal agents

Anesthetics

It is also studied for antimicrobial properties that can be applied to topical treatments and disinfectants.

4. Chemical and Industrial Manufacturing

Serves as a building block in organic synthesis for:

Cellulose acetate propionate (CAP) – used in coatings, films, and plastics.

Plasticizers and herbicides

Solvents and intermediate chemicals (e.g., esters, alcohols)

Used as a pH control agent in industrial processes.

5. Textile and Leather Industry

Used in textile dyeing and finishing to adjust pH and improve dye penetration.

In the leather tanning process, it helps control microbial growth during curing and storage.

6. Cosmetic and Personal Care Products

Used in formulations of creams, lotions, and ointments for its antimicrobial effect and pH regulation.

Sometimes included in fragrances and flavoring agents, although its pungent odor limits its use.

1. Excellent Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties

Propionic acid inhibits the growth of molds and certain bacteria, making it highly effective in food preservation and feed hygiene.

This contributes to longer shelf life, reduced spoilage, and improved food safety.

2. Improves Feed Efficiency and Animal Performance

By preventing mold in feed, it helps retain nutrient content, promoting better digestion and animal weight gain.

It reduces the need for antibiotics in livestock, supporting antibiotic-free farming initiatives.

3. Cost-Effective and Versatile

Propionic acid is relatively low-cost compared to other preservatives.

It has a wide range of applications across different sectors, providing economic efficiency in supply chains.

4. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

As a biodegradable and naturally occurring acid, it aligns with environmental standards and sustainable practices.

Widely approved for use in food and feed, ensuring regulatory ease in global trade.

5. Industrial Utility

Its role as a chemical intermediate makes it essential for the production of value-added chemicals and materials.

Offers good miscibility with water and organic solvents, enhancing its usability in formulations.

6. Shelf-life Extension Without Compromising Quality

In bakery and dairy products, it does not alter the flavor or texture significantly, preserving consumer experience while ensuring microbial safety.