E218 · Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E218?
Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate (methylparaben) is the most widely used paraben-class preservative, inhibiting bacteria, mould, and yeast in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is often combined with other parabens for broader antimicrobial protection. It is authorised for food use in many jurisdictions within permitted limits, and JECFA/EFSA include it in a group acceptable daily intake for methyl- and ethyl-parabens.
Also appears on labels as: Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, Methylparaben, Methyl p-hydroxybenzoic acid ester, E218, E 218, E-218, Food preservative methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, Methyl para-hydroxybenzoate, p-Hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester, Preservative E218, Methyl parabens, Metilparabenas.
What the evidence says
- Parabens show weak endocrine (hormone-mimicking) activity in laboratory studies; current usage limits are set to account for this.
- Occasional contact allergy reported, mainly from cosmetic use; dietary reactions are rare.
Research behind the verdict
- Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Food Additives, Flavourings, Processing Aids and Materials in Contact with Food (AFC) related to para-hydroxybenzoates (E 214–219) — EFSA AFC Panel, EFSA Journal (2004). Group ADI 0–10 mg/kg bw/day for methyl- and ethyl-paraben (and their sodium salts); propylparaben excluded due to no clear NOAEL. Methylparaben shows weak estrogenic activity in vitro, but no in vivo estrogenicity in uterotrophic assays at relevant doses. E218 remains authorised for specific EU food categories.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E218 safe?
Our overall verdict for E218 (Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E218 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Methyl 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 E218 and why is it used?
Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate (methylparaben) is the most widely used paraben-class preservative, inhibiting bacteria, mould, and yeast in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is often combined with other parabens for broader antimicrobial protection. It is authorised for food use in many jurisdictions within permitted limits, and JECFA/EFSA include it in a group acceptable daily intake for methyl- and ethyl-parabens.
Does E218 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Methyl 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.