This section focuses on an overview of sodium propionate powder and granular as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to sodium propionate manufacturers, supply chain issues, sodium propionate suppliers, and sodium propionate prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality sodium propionate in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on E281 and CAS 137-40-6.
Table of Contents
What is Sodium Propionate?
Sodium propionate is a widely used food preservative that plays a crucial role in extending the shelf life of many common food products. It is highly soluble in water and exhibits antimicrobial properties that make it valuable for food preservation. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), sodium propionate is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The primary application of sodium propionate is in baked goods, where it prevents the growth of mold and bacteria that could cause spoilage. It is also used in processed meat products, dairy items, and various processed foods.
CAS No.: 137-40-6
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of sodium propionate is 137-40-6.
Molecular Formula: C3H5NaO2
Molecular Mass: 96.06
Appearance: White crystalline powder or granular
Solubility: Readily dissolves in water, 1 g/ml.
Other Names:
Propanoic acid, sodium salt (1:1)
Propionic acid, sodium salt
Propanoic acid, sodium salt
Impedex
Mycoban
Napropion
Ocuseptine
Sodium propionate
Sodium propanoate
E number: E281
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), sodium propionate is approved to be used as food additive E281.
Bulk Sodium Propionate Manufacturers
The global sodium propionate production capacity is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like Niacet and Macco Organiques. Their advanced production facilities in North America and Europe utilize proprietary technology to achieve high product purity and consistency. Niacet has distinguished itself through vertical integration, controlling much of its raw material supply chain while maintaining production facilities across multiple continents.
Sinofi is a bulk sodium propionate manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of sodium propionate E281. We supply high-quality sodium propionate powder and granular at bulk prices and serve food, pharmaceutical, feed, and other industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Sodium Propionate
The manufacturing process of sodium propionate involves the neutralization of propionic acid with sodium hydroxide under controlled conditions.
Raw Materials and Prerequisites
The primary raw materials required for sodium propionate production include high-purity propionic acid (C3H6O2) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. The propionic acid should meet food-grade specifications with a minimum purity of 99.5%, while the sodium hydroxide solution typically ranges from 45-50% concentration.
Production Process
Reaction Phase
The manufacturing begins with the careful addition of propionic acid to a reactor containing sodium hydroxide solution. The neutralization reaction proceeds according to the following equation:
C3H6O2 + NaOH → C3H5O2Na + H2O
The reaction is exothermic, requiring precise temperature control between 20-30°C through a cooling system. The pH is continuously monitored and maintained between 7.0-7.5 to ensure complete neutralization.
Crystallization
Following neutralization, the solution undergoes crystallization. This phase involves:
- Concentration of the solution through evaporation under vacuum conditions.
- Cooling the concentrated solution to initiate crystal formation.
- Maintaining optimal crystallization temperature around 15-20°C.
Separation and Drying
The crystals are separated from the mother liquor using centrifugation. The wet crystals then enter a drying phase, typically utilizing fluid bed dryers operating at temperatures between 60-80°C. This process reduces moisture content to less than 0.5%.
Quality Control Measures
The final product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure compliance with food-grade specifications:
- Purity testing (minimum 99% sodium propionate)
- Moisture content analysis
- pH measurement of aqueous solution
- Heavy metals screening
- Microbiological testing
The successful manufacture of sodium propionate requires careful attention to process parameters, quality control, and safety measures. Modern facilities employ advanced automation and control systems to ensure consistent product quality while maintaining operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Bulk Sodium Propionate Suppliers
The global sodium propionate supply is dominated by bulk suppliers like Niacet and Macco Organiques. They stand out as one of the largest producers, offering high-purity sodium propionate in various quantities. Most bulk sodium propionate suppliers offer tiered pricing structures, with significant discounts available for long-term supply agreements.
Sinofi is a bulk sodium propionate supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality sodium propionate E281. We sell different grades of sodium propionate at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, feed, and other industrial manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Sodium Propionate
The sodium propionate supply chain represents a complex network of interconnected stakeholders, processes, and regulations. Success in this market requires understanding and effectively managing these various components while staying adaptable to changing market conditions and regulatory requirements.
Supply Chain Structure
Raw Material Sourcing
The production of sodium propionate begins with two primary raw materials: propionic acid and sodium hydroxide. The propionic acid supply chain typically originates from petrochemical facilities that produce ethylene and carbon monoxide through hydrocarboxylation processes. Major suppliers are concentrated in regions with robust petrochemical infrastructure, particularly in North America, Western Europe, and East Asia.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing tier of the supply chain consists of both integrated chemical companies and specialized producers. These facilities combine propionic acid with sodium hydroxide in a controlled neutralization reaction to produce sodium propionate. The production process requires sophisticated equipment and precise quality control measures to ensure product purity and consistency.
Distribution Network
The distribution network for sodium propionate operates on multiple levels:
1. Primary Distribution
- Bulk chemical distributors handling large-volume shipments.
- Regional warehousing facilities for inventory management.
- Specialized chemical logistics providers equipped for handling preservatives.
2. Secondary Distribution
- Local distributors serving smaller markets
- Industry-specific chemical suppliers
- Food ingredient wholesalers
End-User Segments
The supply chain terminates at various end-user segments:
- Food Manufacturing: The largest consumer, using sodium propionate as a preservative.
- Animal Feed Production: For feed preservation and mold prevention.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: For specific formulations and applications.
- Other Industrial Applications: Including textile treatment and personal care products.
As the industry continues to evolve, focus on sustainability, technology integration, and risk management will become increasingly important for maintaining competitive advantage and ensuring reliable supply.
Wholesale and Buy Sodium Propionate in Bulk
Successful wholesale purchasing of sodium propionate requires careful attention to quality, regulatory compliance, and supply chain efficiency. When choosing a bulk sodium propionate supplier, consider conducting thorough supplier audits and requesting sample materials for testing. Evaluate their track record in terms of quality consistency, delivery reliability, and technical support capabilities. Consider developing relationships with multiple suppliers to ensure supply chain resilience. Building strong relationships with reliable suppliers while maintaining strict quality controls ensures a consistent supply at competitive prices.
As a bulk sodium propionate manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality E281 ingredient for food, pharmaceutical, feed, and other industries. We also wholesale sodium propionate to small customers. Normally, they want to buy sodium propionate powder and granular in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale high-quality sodium propionate at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Sodium Propionate Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Sodium Propionate Price (Purity = 99.0%–100.5%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 4 USD | Express |
| 500g | 12 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 18 USD /Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 25% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Recent market analysis reveals significant shifts in sodium propionate prices, driven by changes in manufacturing costs, supply chain dynamics, and evolving demand patterns across various industries. This preservative and food additive continues to play a crucial role in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and feed applications. Premium food-grade sodium propionate commands higher prices than those of feed grade, reflecting stricter quality requirements and purification processes.
Key Price Drivers
- Rising raw material costs, particularly propionic acid, have exerted upward pressure on sodium propionate prices. Manufacturing facilities in Asia, particularly in China, continue to dominate production, making global prices sensitive to regional economic conditions and regulatory changes in these markets.
- Energy costs have emerged as another significant factor, with increased natural gas prices affecting production expenses.
- Transportation and logistics challenges have contributed to price volatility, especially in regions dependent on imports.
Furthermore, the above sodium propionate price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of sodium propionate may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of sodium propionate will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Sodium Propionate Uses
Sodium propionate serves as a widely used preservative and chemical compound with significant applications across multiple industries.
Food Preservation Uses
In the food industry, sodium propionate stands out as an essential preservative, particularly in baked goods. The compound effectively inhibits mold growth and extends shelf life while maintaining product quality. Bakeries incorporate it into bread, rolls, and other flour-based products to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness. Its effectiveness stems from its ability to control various types of fungi and bacteria that typically cause food deterioration.
Animal Feed Uses
The agricultural sector utilizes sodium propionate as a critical component in animal feed preservation. When added to livestock feed, it prevents mold growth during storage and helps maintain nutritional value. This application proves especially valuable in humid climates where feed is particularly susceptible to spoilage.
Pharmaceutical Uses
In pharmaceutical applications, sodium propionate serves multiple functions. The compound acts as a buffering agent in various medications and helps maintain proper pH levels in pharmaceutical formulations. Additionally, it functions as a preservative in liquid medications and topical preparations, ensuring product stability and longevity.
Industrial Uses
Beyond food and pharmaceuticals, sodium propionate finds use in various industrial processes. The chemical serves as an intermediate in the production of other compounds and plays a role in leather tanning operations. Its antimicrobial properties make it valuable in personal care products and cosmetics as well.
Sodium propionate’s diverse applications across food preservation, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes underscore its significance as a versatile compound. Its combination of effectiveness, safety, and environmental compatibility ensures its continued relevance in meeting various industrial and commercial needs.
Sodium Propionate Benefits
Sodium propionate, a naturally occurring organic salt, has gained significant recognition in both the food industry and medical research for its diverse applications and benefits.
Antimicrobial Benefits
Research has demonstrated sodium propionate’s robust antimicrobial capabilities. The compound effectively inhibits various pathogenic organisms, including Bacillus mesentericus and specific mold species. This property makes it particularly valuable in commercial food production, where maintaining product safety throughout the supply chain is paramount.
Nutritional Benefits
As a propionate salt, this compound contributes to normal metabolic processes in the human body. When consumed, it converts to propionic acid, which plays a role in glucose metabolism. The body naturally processes sodium propionate efficiently, making it a well-tolerated preservative option for most individuals.
Economic Benefits
The use of sodium propionate offers significant economic benefits to food producers. By extending shelf life and reducing food waste, it helps optimize production costs and improve supply chain efficiency. This economic advantage has contributed to its widespread adoption in the food industry.
Sodium Propionate Used in Food
A Preservative and Antioxidant for Meat Products
Ingredients by weight: sodium benzoate, 6 parts; sodium propionate, 4 parts; potassium sorbate, 4 parts; tea polyphenols, 2 parts; propolis, 3 parts; citric acid, 2 parts; sodium bisulfite, 2 parts; and distilled water, 37 parts.
Weigh the raw materials according to the above weight ratio, add them to distilled water at 40℃ while stirring, fully mix and stir until uniform, then cool to room temperature.
Apply the prepared preservative and antioxidant to the surface of the meat at 2% to 4% of the meat’s weight, let it dry, and then freeze the meat.
In conclusion, sodium propionate continues to play a vital role in modern food, feed, and pharmaceutical production due to its proven safety record and effectiveness. As a bulk sodium propionate manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of sodium propionate at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.