Specimen No. 0188
AvoidSyntheticfood synthetic preservatives
Calcium Propionate
E282
Master DB rating: Avoid. Listed for: Commercial bread, rolls, baked goods
medium confidence
Researched July 7, 2026Specimen 0188Calcium Propionate
Concerns
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial found children's behavior (irritability, restlessness, sleep disturbance) worsened significantly more often on calcium propionate challenge than on placebo (Dengate & Ruben 2002)
- Systemic propionic acid administration produces autism-like behavioral and brain ultrastructural changes in rodent models, a plausible but not directly equivalent mechanism [Inference: rodent studies use injected propionic acid, not dietary calcium propionate]
Regulatory flags
- ⚑IARC Class: NL
- ⚑EDC Status: None
- ⚑Regulatory: US: GRAS; EU: permitted; no child-specific safety limits
- ⚑Evidence Grade: B
Commonly found in
Commercial bread, rolls, baked goods
Sources & references
Last researched: July 7, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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