ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate |
| English name | ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate |
| INS/E number | INS 214 |
| Functional class | Preservative |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate (INS 214) is a paraben preservative with greater lipophilicity than the methyl ester, inhibiting moulds, yeasts and some bacteria.
Source
Industrial：对羟基苯甲酸与乙醇酯化、精制制得食品级防腐剂
Why is it used?
- Inhibits moulds, yeasts and some bacteria
- Lipophilic, suited to high-fat foods
- Effective over a broad pH range
- Synergistic with shorter-chain parabens
- Extends shelf life
Common Foods
- High-fat seasonings
- Sauces
- Beverages
- Confectionery
- Some bakery and dairy products
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-10 mg/kg bw (as p-hydroxybenzoic acid, total parabens)
Concerns：
- 潜在内分泌干扰争议
- 部分法域限制或禁用尼泊金酯
- 酯链越长亲水性越差
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（按具体批准品种管理）
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 (E 214, 部分尼泊金酯受限)
- FDA 未普遍批准该乙酯为食品防腐剂
- Codex GSFA (INS 214)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate, 214)
- 日本等部分国家允许使用
In a nutshell
Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate is a lipophilic paraben preservative effective but debated over endocrine effects and regionally restricted.
Consumer Advice
Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate is a paraben preservative once used in soy sauce, vinegar and drinks. Since 2006 the EU has removed all parabens, including this one, from the food authorisation list, and China's GB 2760 keeps only a few types under strict limits. Compliant foods today rarely contain it. Its safety is debated mainly with regard to allergic contact reactions. If it appears on an ingredient list, treat it with caution.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.