Is E282 halal?

What is E282?

Calcium propionate is the calcium salt of propionic acid. It is made by neutralising propionic acid with calcium hydroxide, giving a white powder. Bakers use it because it slows mould and the bacteria that cause “rope” spoilage in bread.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

Both the acid and the calcium come from chemical or mineral sources, with no animal or alcohol input, so it is generally treated as halal. Propionic acid also occurs naturally in some foods, such as certain cheeses, but the additive is made industrially.

How to check the label

No special check is needed for the additive. In bread and baked goods, check other ingredients such as emulsifiers (for example E471 or E472e) or fats if you need certainty.

Where you'll find it

• sliced bread
• rolls and buns
• tortilla wraps
• cakes

Good to know

• EFSA's 2014 re-evaluation did not set an ADI but concluded there was no safety concern at the authorised uses and levels.
• Propionic acid forms naturally in Swiss-type cheeses, where bacteria produce it during ripening.

Similar additives

• E200 Sorbic acid Generally halal
• E202 Potassium sorbate Generally halal
• E211 Sodium benzoate Generally halal
• E220 Sulphur dioxide Generally halal
• E250 Sodium nitrite Generally halal
• E260 Acetic acid Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EFSA re-evaluation of propionic acid and propionates (E 280–283) (2014)
2. US eCFR 21 CFR 184.1221: calcium propionate

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