Honda Repair: Cheap Gas causes Check Engine fault P0420, catalyst system, honda engines

Question
Is this a common problem with Honda engines?

My 1998 Honda Accord 4-cyl has a problem with apparently cheap gas.  Gas below 87 octane found at Racetrack and grocery store gas pumps.

The check engine light illuminates and the code flashes 67 (P0420 Catalyst system efficiency below threshold)

I can use the mid-range gas 89 octane or better and the fault goes away in about 100-150 miles.  I fill up with cheap gas and the light comes back on in no more than 20 miles.

I always thought octane was a retardent used in gasoline to prevent premature firing - i.e. pinging.  Is there other addatives used in name brand gasoline that could prevent this problem.

Answer
Jack:
The car should perform fine on 87 octane as specified in the owner’s manual. You are correct about the octane in gas and there are additives from major suppliers as opposed to any other. You need to have your car serviced to see what is going on to cause it not to burn regular without this problem.
Bill