Propylparaben

Propylparaben

Propylparaben is a commonly used preservative in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. It is a member of the paraben family, a group of compounds with antimicrobial properties.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Propylparaben, also known as propyl p-hydroxybenzoate, is an ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Its chemical formula is C10H12O3. It is a white crystalline solid that is slightly soluble in water but highly soluble in alcohol and other organic solvents.

Uses

Propylparaben is primarily used as a preservative in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. It prevents the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, thereby extending the shelf life of products. In cosmetics, it is used in a wide range of products including creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup. In the food industry, it is used in baked goods, beverages, and dairy products. In pharmaceuticals, it is used in oral and topical medications.

Safety and Health Effects

The safety of propylparaben has been extensively studied. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified it as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food use. However, some studies have suggested that it may have weak estrogenic activity, which has raised concerns about its potential effects on human health. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set a safe intake limit for propylparaben.

Regulation

In the United States, the FDA regulates the use of propylparaben in food and cosmetics. In the European Union, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the EFSA regulate its use in cosmetics and food, respectively.

See Also

• Methylparaben
• Ethylparaben
• Butylparaben

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