Sodium methylparaben
Overview
Sodium methylparaben is the sodium salt form of methylparaben (E218), sharing identical preservative properties and antimicrobial mechanisms. The sodium salt is more water-soluble and is used in beverages, liquid preparations, and food-grade coatings where solubility is advantageous. Like other parabens, it prevents microbial spoilage by disrupting microbial cell membranes.
The applicable safety evaluation is the JECFA group ADI of 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day for total hydroxybenzoates and their salts, established in 1996. This ADI applies to the combined intake of methylparaben (E218) and sodium methylparaben (E219) together. At typical food-use concentrations, intake is generally well within this limit.
Sodium methylparaben faces the same concerns as E218 regarding weak oestrogenic activity observed in laboratory settings and the question of cumulative exposure from food, cosmetics, and medicines combined. EU Regulation 1333/2008 permits its use in specific food categories with defined maximum levels. Consumers who prefer to limit paraben intake should check ingredient lists for both E218 and E219. Looksee assigns a limit rating on the same precautionary basis as E218.
Generated from verified JECFA, EFSA, and regulatory data. All numerical values are sourced from the WHO/FAO JECFA Combined Compendium and EFSA OpenFoodTox 3.0.
Safety Assessment
| Body | Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) | Year |
|---|---|---|
| JECFA | 0–10 mg/kg body weight/day (as total hydroxybenzoates and their salts) · JECFA 1996(Expressed as as total hydroxybenzoates and their salts.) | — |
| EFSA | — | — |
ADI = the amount of a substance a person can consume every day over a lifetime without appreciable health risk. Expressed as mg per kg body weight per day. Source: WHO/FAO JECFA Combined Compendium; EFSA OpenFoodTox 3.0.
Scientific Notes
Sodium salt of methylparaben. Shares the same group ADI.