Group: E200–E299 (preservatives)
E282 is a food additive approved by the European Union (EU). It is a natural acid that acts as an antimicrobial preservative in food products, especially in bakery.
The common name for E282 is calcium propionate. It may also be called calcium propanoate or mycoban.
E282 is the calcium salt of propionic acid. This chemical is produced by bacteria, either in the large intestine, or in fermented products. E282 can be used in cattle as feed and to prevent milk fever. In the body, propionate acts as a small chain fatty acid. In bakery products, this chemical prevents the growth bacteria that cause sticky yellow patches.
E282 has been linked to allergic reactions and sleep disturbances in those with frequent close contact to it.