Calcium propionate is a naturally occurring organic salt formed by a reaction between calcium hydroxide and propionic acid.
It’s commonly used as a food additive — known as E282 — to help preserve various food products, including (1Trusted Source, 2):
Baked goods: breads, pastries, muffins, etc.
Dairy products: cheeses, powdered milk, whey, yogurt, etc.
Beverages: soft drinks, fruit drinks, etc.
Alcoholic drinks: beers, malt beverages, wine, cider, etc.
Processed meats: hot dogs, ham, lunch meats, etc.