E216 · Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate
- WHO
- Better avoided
- FDA
- Better avoided
- EFSA
- Better avoided
- FSANZ
- Better avoided
- Japan
- Better avoided
- UK FSA
- Better avoided
- Health Canada
- Better avoided
What is E216?
Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate (propylparaben) is a paraben-class preservative used to inhibit bacteria, mould, and yeast, extending shelf life. It has been used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, though its use in food is now restricted or not authorised in a number of jurisdictions, including the EU. Regulatory reviews excluded propylparaben from the general parabens group acceptable daily intake due to effects observed in animal studies, and it has raised more concern than methyl- or ethylparaben.
Also appears on labels as: Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, Propylparaben, Propyl p-hydroxybenzoic acid ester, E216, E 216, E-216, Food preservative propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, Propyl para-hydroxybenzoate, p-Hydroxybenzoic acid propyl ester, Preservative E216, Propyl parabens, Propilparabenas.
What the evidence says
- Excluded from the JECFA group ADI for parabens due to adverse reproductive effects observed in male rats; no acceptable daily intake has been established specifically for propylparaben.
- Potential weak endocrine (hormone-mimicking) activity reported in some laboratory studies; relevance to humans at food-use levels is uncertain.
- Not authorised as a food additive in the EU/UK.
- Rare hypersensitivity (e.g., contact dermatitis) reported, mainly from cosmetic exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Is E216 safe?
Our overall verdict for E216 (Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate) is “Better avoided”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: better avoided; WHO: better avoided; EFSA: better avoided; FSANZ: better avoided; Japan: better avoided; UK FSA: better avoided; Health Canada: better avoided.
Is E216 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E216 and why is it used?
Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate (propylparaben) is a paraben-class preservative used to inhibit bacteria, mould, and yeast, extending shelf life. It has been used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, though its use in food is now restricted or not authorised in a number of jurisdictions, including the EU. Regulatory reviews excluded propylparaben from the general parabens group acceptable daily intake due to effects observed in animal studies, and it has raised more concern than methyl- or ethylparaben.
Does E216 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, though some people report sensitivity (paraben sensitivity).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.