Description
Potassium propanoate or potassium propionate has formula K(C
2H
5COO). Its melting point is 410 °C. It is the potassium salt of propanoic acid.
Uses
Potassium Propanoate is used as a food preservative and is represented by the food labeling E number E283 in Europe and by the INS number 283 in Australia and New Zealand.
Application
Potassium propionate is the potassium salt of propionic acid. It is used as an antimicrobial agent in bread to prevent germination of some types of bacteria which causes sticky yellow patches to occur. Has been linked with behavioural and learning problems, migraines, headaches and can cause asthma. It is very effective against molds and rope forming bacteria and is preferred in chemically leavened cakes, tortillas, pie fillings. Since Probake? Potassium Propionate does not add sodium to the product, it is very suitable for low-salt recipes.
Purification Methods
Recrystallise it from water (30mL/g) or 95% EtOH. [Beilstein 2 II 217, 2 III 516, 2 IV 701.]
