Is Sodium Propionate (E281) Halal?

MUIS lists E281 (Sodium Propionate) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. Although it is made synthetically, some production routes use animal-derived processing aids or carriers, and the E-number does not identify the producer. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative against mould in baked goods and dairy products.

• bread
• baked goods
• processed cheese
• tobacco

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

calcium propionate (E282), potassium propionate (E283), propionic acid (E280)

E281 (Sodium Propionate) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative against mould in baked goods and dairy products.

Sodium propionate is the sodium salt of propionic acid, used as a preservative against mould in baked goods and dairy products.

E281 is commonly found in bread, baked goods, processed cheese, and tobacco.