propylparaben (propyl para-hydroxybenzoate)
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | propylparaben (propyl para-hydroxybenzoate) |
| English name | propylparaben (propyl para-hydroxybenzoate) |
| INS/E number | INS 216 |
| Functional class | Preservative |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ) |
What is it?
Propylparaben (INS 216) is a paraben preservative with strong lipophilicity and broad antimicrobial spectrum against moulds, yeasts and some bacteria; restricted in some jurisdictions due to endocrine-disruption concerns.
Source
Industrial：对羟基苯甲酸与丙醇酯化、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
- Extends shelf life
- Synergistic with shorter-chain parabens
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（雌激素样）争议
- 欧盟已禁止作为食品防腐剂
- 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: 丙酯/丁酯自 2015 年起禁止作为食品防腐剂 (Reg. 2015/908)
- FDA 未普遍批准丙酯为食品防腐剂
- Codex GSFA (INS 216)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, 216)
- 日本等部分国家允许使用
In a nutshell
Propylparaben is a more lipophilic paraben preservative, effective but banned in the EU over endocrine concerns.
Consumer Advice
Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate is a paraben preservative once used in many foods. The EU has banned parabens in food since 2006; China allows only its sodium salt in a few products under strict limits. Safety concerns relate to weak oestrogen-like activity and allergic reactions, although dietary exposure is generally very low. It should not appear in compliant foods, so consumers normally need not worry.
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.