Food Additives Encyclopedia

English

简体中文

English

简体中文

Appearance

methylparaben (methyl para-hydroxybenzoate) ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namemethylparaben (methyl para-hydroxybenzoate)
English namemethylparaben (methyl para-hydroxybenzoate)
INS/E numberINS 218
Functional classPreservative
Year adoptedTo be added.
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Methylparaben (INS 218) is the shortest-chain paraben preservative with better hydrophilicity, inhibiting moulds, yeasts and some bacteria; it is among the earliest and most widely used parabens.

Source ​

Industrial：对羟基苯甲酸与甲醇酯化、精制制得食品级防腐剂

Why is it used? ​

  • Inhibits moulds, yeasts and some bacteria
  • Better hydrophilicity for aqueous systems
  • Effective over a broad pH range
  • Extends shelf life
  • Synergistic with longer-chain parabens

Common Foods ​

  • Beverages
  • Sauces
  • Confectionery
  • Some bakery
  • Dairy and seasonings

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：0-10 mg/kg bw (as p-hydroxybenzoic acid, total parabens)

Concerns：

  • 潜在内分泌干扰讨论（较丙/丁酯弱）
  • 部分法域对尼泊金酯有限制
  • 高浓度可能刺激

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760（按具体批准品种管理）

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 (E 218, 部分法域限制)
  • FDA 一般未普遍批准为食品防腐剂（多用于化妆品）
  • Codex GSFA (INS 218)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, 218)
  • 日本等部分国家允许使用

In a nutshell ​

Methylparaben is a short-chain, more hydrophilic paraben preservative, widely used and relatively safe.

Consumer Advice ​

Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate is a paraben preservative widely used in cosmetics and, historically, a few foods. The EU stopped authorising it for food in 2006; China permits only its sodium salt in a few products under strict limits. It has strong antimicrobial activity, but its food safety, especially regarding allergy, is debated. It should not appear in compliant foods, so there is no special cause for concern.

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.