Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate (E216): What It Is and Is It Safe?
Propylparaben is the propyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, formerly used as an antimicrobial preservative. EFSA's 2004 re-evaluation could not set an acceptable daily intake because it found no clear no-effect level after propylparaben reduced sperm production in juvenile rats at the lowest dose tested, and the EU removed it from the list of permitted preservatives through Directive 2006/52/EC. Parabens also show weak oestrogenic activity and can cause contact hypersensitivity.
- Category
- Preservative — Paraben
- Typically used in
- Formerly a preservative in baked goods, coatings, and processed foods; withdrawn from EU food use.
- Regulatory status
- Banned in the EU in 2006.
- Also listed as
- Propylparaben
- Concerns flagged
-
Possible allergenEndocrine disruptionReproductive-health concern
Scrannr flags Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate automatically when you scan a barcode.
Where this comes from
- EFSA (2004) — EFSA advises on the safety of paraben usage in food https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/news/efsa-advises-safety-paraben-usage-food
- European Parliament and Council (2006) — Directive 2006/52/EC amending Directive 95/2/EC on food additives other than colours and sweeteners https://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/eur65341.pdf
Products containing Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate
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