Comparing E235 - Natamycin vs E282 - calcium propionate
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Popular questions
What is natamycin in cheese?
A natural antifungal preservative (E235) applied to the surface of cheeses to prevent mold and yeast growth; it stays near the rind and has minimal penetration or effect on flavor.
Natamycin what is it?
Natamycin (E235) is a polyene antifungal produced by Streptomyces, used in foods to inhibit molds/yeasts and also as a topical antifungal medicine.
How natamycin works?
It binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, disrupting their function and stopping mold and yeast growth; it doesn’t act on bacteria because they lack ergosterol.
Is natamycin an antibiotic?
Yes—it's an antifungal antibiotic (polyene), but in foods it’s used specifically to control molds and yeasts and isn’t active against bacteria.
Why did whole foods ban natamycin?
Whole Foods excludes natamycin under its ingredient standards that avoid certain preservatives/antimicrobial agents; this is a retailer policy choice rather than a regulatory safety ban.
Is calcium propionate bad for you?
No—at permitted food levels, calcium propionate (E282) is considered safe by regulators (FDA GRAS; EU-approved) and is rapidly metabolized. A small number of people may be sensitive, but evidence of harm at typical dietary exposures is limited.
What is calcium propionate made from?
It’s the calcium salt of propionic acid, usually produced by neutralizing propionic acid with calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate. The propionic acid can come from petrochemical synthesis or fermentation by Propionibacterium.
Is calcium propionate banned in europe?
No—E282 is authorized in the EU as a preservative in specified foods under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, with set maximum levels. It is not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
What is calcium propionate used for?
It’s a preservative that inhibits molds and some bacteria to extend shelf life. In baking, it helps prevent mold and “rope” spoilage in bread and similar products.
What is calcium propionate used in?
Commonly in bread, rolls, tortillas, cakes, and other baked goods; it’s also permitted in some processed cheeses depending on the jurisdiction. Specific uses and limits vary by country and product category.