This section focuses on an overview of propionic acid as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to propionic acid manufacturers, supply chain issues, propionic acid suppliers, and propionic acid prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality propionic acid in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on E280 and CAS 79-09-4.
Table of Contents
What is Propionic Acid?
Propionic acid, also known as propanoic acid, is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid. Its chemical properties, including its ability to form esters and salts, make it particularly valuable in agriculture, food preservation, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries. Propionic acid serves as a crucial component in many commercial products and manufacturing processes. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), propionic acid is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
CAS No.: 79-09-4
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of nisin is 79-09-4.
Molecular Formula: CH3CH2COOH
Molecular Mass: 74.08
Appearance: Colorless liquid with a distinct pungent odor
Other Name:
♦ Propionic Acid
♦ Ethylformic Acid
♦ Methylacetic Acid
♦ C3 Acid
♦ Propanoic Acid
E number: E280
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), propionic acid is approved to be used as food additive E280.
Bulk Propionic Acid Manufacturers
The global propionic acid production capacity is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like BASF and EASTMAN. They maintain a dominant position in propionic acid production with manufacturing facilities across Europe and North America. Their advanced production facilities employ the manufacturing methods of carbonylation and propionaldehyde oxidation. They invested heavily in process optimization and sustainable production methods to maintain their competitive edge.
Sinofi is a bulk propionic acid manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of propionic acid E280. We supply high-quality propionic acid at bulk prices and serve food, pharmaceutical, and feed industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Propionic Acid
The global production of propionic acid exceeds 400,000 metric tons annually. The industry employs several manufacturing routes, with three predominant commercial processes:
Carbonylation of Ethylene (Hydrocarboxylation)
The carbonylation of ethylene represents one of the most economically viable and widely utilized industrial methods for propionic acid production. The most common industrial method accounts for approximately 65% of global production. This process involves the reaction of ethylene with carbon monoxide and water using nickel carbonyl as a catalyst.
Chemical Reaction
The fundamental reaction can be represented as:
C₂H₄ + CO + H₂O → C₃H₆O₂
Process Steps
- Compression of gaseous feedstock (ethylene and carbon monoxide)
- Reaction in the presence of the catalyst system
- Product separation through distillation
- Catalyst recovery and recycling
Yield: Industrial processes achieve yields of 85-95%, with selectivity exceeding 90% under optimized conditions.
Advantages
- Direct conversion of relatively inexpensive raw materials
- High atom economy
- Established industrial technology with predictable economics
Oxidation of Propionaldehyde
The industrial method accounts for roughly 25% of production, involving the oxidation of propionaldehyde derived from hydroformylation of ethylene. This two-step process involves the initial production of propionaldehyde from ethylene via hydroformylation (oxo synthesis), followed by oxidation to propionic acid.
Chemical Reactions
Step 1: C₂H₄ + CO + H₂ → C₃H₆O (propionaldehyde)
Step 2: C₃H₆O + ½O₂ → C₃H₆O₂
Hydroformylation Step
- Conducted at 10-30 bar pressure and 90-130°C
- Utilizes rhodium or cobalt catalysts
- Produces propionaldehyde with high selectivity
Oxidation Step
- Air or oxygen oxidation at moderate temperatures (40-60°C)
- Metal catalysts (typically cobalt, manganese, or copper salts)
- Controlled to prevent over-oxidation
Separation: Series of distillation columns to achieve commercial purity (≥99.5%)
Advantages
- Lower operating pressures compared to direct carbonylation
- Higher overall selectivity
- Versatility in plant configuration
Fermentation Processes
The biological production of propionic acid utilizes microorganisms, primarily Propionibacterium species, to ferment carbohydrates or lactate. This method represents a growing segment of production, particularly for food-grade applications.
Quality Control
Industrial production maintains strict quality parameters:
Purity: 99.5-99.8% for technical grade; ≥99.8% for food/pharmaceutical grades
Moisture content: typically <0.1%
Color: water-white to slight yellow (APHA scale)
Acidity: within defined specification ranges
Residual catalyst levels: strictly controlled, particularly for food applications
Bulk Propionic Acid Suppliers
The global propionic acid supply is dominated by several major chemical manufacturers like BASF, DOW, and EASTMAN. As one of the world’s largest chemical producers, BASF maintains significant propionic acid production capacity at facilities in Germany, China, and the United States. They offer technical and food-grade propionic acid with purities ranging from 99.5% to 99.8%. BASF’s vertically integrated production model allows for consistent quality control and reliable supply chain management. Top propionic acid suppliers have a global distribution network to facilitate bulk deliveries across major markets.
Sinofi is a bulk propionic acid supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality propionic acid E280. We sell different grades of propionic acid at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, feed, and personal care manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Propionic Acid
The propionic acid supply chain represents a complex global network that connects petrochemical producers with diverse end-use industries. While the current structure remains heavily dependent on fossil-based feedstocks and centralized production facilities, ongoing innovations in bio-based production and digital supply chain management are gradually transforming the landscape.
Supply Chain Structure
The propionic acid supply chain consists of five primary components:
- Raw Material Suppliers: Providers of ethylene, carbon monoxide, natural gas, or biomass feedstocks.
- Manufacturers: Chemical companies that convert raw materials to propionic acid.
- Distributors and Traders: Entities that transport, store, and trade the product.
- Formulators and Processors: Companies that incorporate propionic acid into final products.
- End Users: Industries and consumers utilizing propionic acid-based products.
Production Capacity Distribution
Global production capacity is distributed across regions as follows:
- North America: 35%
- Europe: 30%
- Asia-Pacific: 25%
- Rest of World: 10%
Wholesale and Buy Propionic Acid in Bulk
Success in wholesale propionic acid procurement requires careful supplier evaluation beyond simple price comparisons. Propionic acid buyers should develop relationships with multiple qualified suppliers, implement rigorous quality verification protocols, and structure contracts to balance price stability with flexibility. For businesses operating in these sectors, understanding the wholesale market and best practices for bulk purchasing of propionic acid can lead to substantial cost savings and operational efficiencies.
Bulk propionic acid is typically categorized into three primary grades:
Food/Feed Grade (99%+ purity)
- Complies with food safety regulations (FDA, EFSA).
- Requires specific handling and documentation.
- Premium pricing structure.
Technical Grade (94-98% purity)
- Used for industrial applications and as an intermediate.
- More competitive pricing.
- Wider supplier base including regional manufacturers.
- May contain trace impurities within acceptable limits.
Pharmaceutical Grade (99.5%+ purity)
- Meets pharmacopeia standards (USP, EP).
- Requires extensive documentation and certification.
- Highest pricing tier.
Procurement Considerations
Organizations seeking bulk propionic acid suppliers should evaluate several key factors:
- Quality Certification and Consistency.
- Reputable suppliers maintain ISO certifications and provide consistent material specifications. For food and pharmaceutical applications, additional certifications are required.
As a bulk propionic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality products for the food, pharmaceutical, feed, and personal care industries. We also wholesale propionic acid to small customers. Normally, they want to buy propionic acid in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale high-quality propionic acid at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Propionic Acid Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Propionic Acid Prices (Purity>=99.5%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 7 USD | Express |
| 500g | 28 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 39 USD /Kg | Express |
| 10Kg | negotiable | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Propionic acid prices have largely stabilized following the volatility of 2023-2024, with current levels representing a new equilibrium that balances production economics, capacity utilization, and end-market demand. While regional pricing differences persist, global markets are showing increased integration with more transparent pricing mechanisms. The outlook suggests measured price appreciation over the coming years, with potential volatility arising primarily from feedstock cost fluctuations rather than fundamental supply-demand imbalances.
Key Price Drivers
Propionic acid production relies primarily on the oxidation of propionaldehyde or the hydrocarboxylation of ethylene, making it sensitive to petrochemical feedstock prices. Key influences include:
- Ethylene pricing: As a primary feedstock, ethylene prices have maintained a correlation with propionic acid pricing at approximately 0.75-0.80.
- Natural gas: For producers using propane routes, natural gas pricing remains a significant input cost.
- Propionaldehyde: Alternative production pathways using propionaldehyde have seen cost advantages in regions with advanced petrochemical integration.
Furthermore, the above propionic acid price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of propionic acid may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of propionic acid will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Propionic Acid Uses
In the food industry, propionic acid serves as a preservative (E280) due to its antimicrobial properties. It effectively inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria, extending the shelf life of various food products, particularly baked goods. Propionic acid also finds extensive use in animal feed preservation, where it helps prevent feed spoilage and promotes animal health. The chemical industry utilizes propionic acid as an intermediate in the production of cellulose acetate propionate, pharmaceuticals, and various esters. These derivatives are essential components in the manufacture of perfumes, solvents, and plastic products. Additionally, the acid serves as a crucial building block in the synthesis of vitamin E and other pharmaceutical compounds.
Food and Feed Preservation
Propionic acid and its salts (particularly calcium and sodium propionate) serve as effective preservatives (E280-E283) that inhibit the growth of mold and certain bacteria.
- Animal Feed Preservatives: Prevents mold growth in livestock feed.
- Food Additives: Used as E280 preservative in baked goods, cheese.
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care
- Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients: Intermediate for various medications.
- Preservatives in Cosmetics: Antimicrobial properties.
Herbicides and Crop Protection
- Herbicide Formulations: Active ingredient in certain herbicides.
- Plant Growth Regulators: Specialized agricultural applications.
Chemical Intermediates
- Production of Esters: Used in solvents and fragrances.
- Cellulose Acetate Propionate: Specialty plastics.
Other Applications
- Dyes and Pigments: Manufacturing processes.
- Polymer Additives: Stabilizers and processing aids.
- Rubber Production: Chemical intermediates.
Propionic Acid Benefits
Propionic acid’s diverse benefits across multiple industries make it a valuable compound for businesses seeking effective, safe, and sustainable solutions. Research indicates that propionic acid may offer several health benefits:
- Serves as a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health.
- Demonstrates antimicrobial properties against harmful pathogens.
- May help regulate immune system responses.
- Shows potential in supporting metabolic health.
Dermatological Applications
In dermatology, propionic acid derivatives contribute to various treatments:
- Used in formulations for acne management.
- Incorporated into antifungal preparations.
- Serves as a pH adjuster in skincare products.
- Helps maintain the stability of topical medications.
Propionic Acid Used in Feed
A Piglet Feed Promoting Blood Vessel Growth
With the following composition and content of raw materials:
The premix consists of vitamins, trace elements and carriers, specifically as follows: Each 10.7g of premix contains: Vitamin A, 16,000 IU; Vitamin D3, 4,000 IU; Vitamin E, 10 IU; Vitamin K3, 2 mg; Vitamin B1, 0.8 mg; Vitamin B2, 6.4 mg; Vitamin B6, 2.4 mg; Vitamin B12, 12 μg; Folic acid, 0.2 mg; Nicotinamide, 14 mg; D-Pantothenic acid, 10 mg; Iron, 120 mg; Copper, 6 mg; Manganese, 40 mg; Zinc, 100 mg; Iodine, 0.3 mg; Selenium, 0.3 mg; The rest is the carrier.
Pig feed, per 1000 kg, includes the following components: Corn, 510 kg; Puffed soybeans, 70 kg; Flour, 100 kg; Soybean meal (with a crude protein content of 46 wt%), 185 kg; Whey powder (low protein, with a crude protein content of 3.5 wt%), 50 kg; Calcium hydrogen phosphate, 8.6 kg; Calcium carbonate powder (0.5 mm), 6.7 kg; Lysine hydrochloride (70 wt%), 9.2 kg; Premix, 10.7 kg; Montmorillonite, 5 kg; Sodium chloride, 4 kg; L-Threonine, 2.7 kg; DL-Methionine, 2.4 kg; Zinc chloride, 2 kg; Choline chloride (50 wt%), 1.5 kg; Propionic acid (50 wt%), 1 kg; L-Tryptophan, 0.7 kg; Copper sulfate, 0.4 kg; Ethoxyquin (6.5 wt%) and rice husk powder (93.5 wt%), 0.3 kg; Zeolite powder, 0.8 kg; Soybean oil, 29 kg.
In conclusion, propionic acid represents a versatile compound with significant industrial applications and potential health benefits. Its effectiveness as a preservative, coupled with its utility as a chemical intermediate, ensures its continued importance across multiple industries. As a leading propionic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of propionic acid E280 to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.