Propionic acid (inci)

Monobasic natural carboxylic acid with the molecular formula C3HH6O2 and the linear formula CH3-CH2-COOH, which is found in urine, sweat, wood vinegar and in some plants. Propionic acid is miscible with water in any proportion; the carboxylic acid is further soluble in ethanol, ether and chloroform.

Nutritionally, propionic acid below E 280 is used as a preservative (prevents bread and cheese from going mouldy).

Cosmetics: Propionic acid is used in cosmetic formulations. It acts as a substance used as a preservative in cosmetic preparations. Inhibits the growth of micro-organisms (The framework conditions for preservatives that may be used in cosmetics are defined in the EC Cosmetics Regulation - 1223/2009 - Annex V).

1. The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) Manage risks - protect consumers: https://www.bvl.bund.de/DE/03_Verbraucherprodukte/03_AntragstellerUnternehmen/02_Kosmetik/04_Inhaltsstoffe/bgs_fuerAntragsteller_kosmetik_gesetzlicheRegelung_inhaltsstoffe_node.html