Preservative
Also known as: Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate, Propyl paraben, Propyl parahydroxybenzoate, E216, Sodium propylparaben (E217), n-Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, CAS 94-13-3
Propylparaben is a synthetic ester of para-hydroxybenzoic acid used as an antimicrobial preservative to inhibit mold, yeast, and bacteria and extend shelf life in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is part of the paraben family and has been the subject of endocrine-activity concerns that led to its removal as an authorized food additive in the EU and a forthcoming food ban in California.
Commencing January 1, 2027, a person or entity shall not manufacture, sell, deliver, distribute, hold, or offer for sale, in commerce a food product for human consumption that contains any of the following substances: ... (3) Propylparaben (CAS no. 94-13-3).
California's AB-418 (California Food Safety Act, signed 2023) bans propylparaben from food products sold in California effective January 1, 2027.
It is necessary to withdraw E 216 propyl p-hydroxybenzoate and E 217 sodium propyl p-hydroxybenzoate from Directive 95/2/EC. [In Annex I] the rows for 'E 216 Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate' and 'E 217 Sodium propyl p-hydroxybenzoate' are deleted.
EU Directive 2006/52/EC (5 July 2006) removed propylparaben (E216) and sodium propylparaben (E217) from the list of food additives authorized in the European Union.
Due to concerns for potential endocrine effects, CSPI rates propylparaben as Caution. ... In effect, propylparaben is banned from foods in the EU. ... [it is] currently listed on FDA's list of chemicals under review (added in 2024) and was banned from foods in California in 2023.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest rates propylparaben 'Caution' over potential endocrine (hormone-disrupting) effects, noting it is effectively banned from foods in the EU, banned in California, and under FDA review.
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