Propionic Acid

Propionic acid is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid with the chemical formula CH3CH2COOH. It is a clear liquid with a strong unpleasant odor and highly corrosive. Industrial propionic acid is mainly produced by hydrocarboxylation of ethylene, but is also produced by the oxidation of propionaldehyde.

Propionic acid has proved to have a significant antimicrobial effect on organic matter and as a result inhibits the growth of mold, yeasts and bacteria. It prevent nutrient losses and mycotoxin formation among many things. For this reason the majority of the propionic acid produced industrially, is used as a preservative in both animal feed and human food.

Examples of applications

Preservation

Propionic acid and it’s salts are very good for preserving compound feed and other raw materials. Dependent on the moisture of the matter, storage temperature and length of storage, an appropriate amount of propionic acid is added to the feed stock.

Grass Silage and corn

By adding propionic acid to grass silage, the quality of the feed is secured. Long-term improvement in the aerobic stability of the matter has been recorded and in addition it prevents secondary fermentation and losses created by overheating in the surface of the hay stack.

Acid mixtures

Propionic acid is an integrated part of many feed acid mixtures. Both in grass- and crop silage, wet feed and compound feed.

Packaging

• Product is available in bulk and various packaging.