What is sodium propinate?

Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid. It is a white crystalline solid that is used as a food preservative, in pharmaceuticals, and in the production of cellulose acetate. It is soluble in water and has a slightly salty taste. Sodium propionate is often added to baked goods such as breads, cakes, and pastries to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is also approved for use in the European Union. However, some studies have suggested that high levels of sodium propionate may have negative health effects, such as potentially disrupting gut microbiota and increasing the risk of obesity and diabetes.