Additives

Methyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate (E218): What It Is and Is It Safe?

Moderate Preservative

A paraben preservative. Under ongoing scientific debate due to weak oestrogenic activity in laboratory studies. Most regulatory bodies currently consider them safe at permitted levels.

Category: Preservative
Typically used in: Sauces, pickles, flavourings
Regulatory status: Approved EU/USA/UK. Ongoing debate on endocrine effects.
Also listed as: Methylparaben
Concerns flagged: Possible allergenEndocrine disruptionReproductive-health concern

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Sources

Where this comes from

EFSA (2004) — Opinion on para hydroxybenzoates -E 214-219- as food additives http://dx.doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2004.83

E217 Moderate Sodium Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate View additive E219 Moderate Sodium Methyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate View additive E216 Moderate Propyl p-Hydroxybenzoate View additive E220 Limited risk Sulphur Dioxide View additive E215 Moderate Sodium Ethyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate View additive E221 Limited risk Sodium Sulphite View additive

Products

Products containing Methyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate

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Methyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate (E218): What It Is and Is It Safe?

Where this comes from

Related additives

Products containing Methyl Para-Hydroxybenzoate

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