Propionic acid is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor, commonly used as a preservative in food products. It is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C3H6O2 and is naturally found in some fermented foods. Its primary function in food is to inhibit the growth of mold and bacteria, extending shelf life. In addition to its use in food preservation, propionic acid is also utilized in the production of various chemicals and pharmaceuticals. It serves as a building block for the synthesis of herbicides, fungicides, and plasticizers, making it an important compound in both the agricultural and industrial sectors.