The Lab
Specimen No. 0074
AvoidSyntheticfood additivepreservative

Propylparaben in Food

propylparaben · e216 · propyl p-hydroxybenzoate

Paraben preservative used in food. The EU banned propylparaben in food products in 2006 due to endocrine disruption concerns. Still permitted in some US food applications.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • Banned as food additive in EU (E216) due to endocrine disruption
  • Estrogenic activity — can interfere with reproductive development
  • CDC biomonitoring detects propylparaben in most Americans
  • Particularly concerning for fetuses and young children

Regulatory flags

  • EU restricted in food products for infants and young children
  • EU restricted in cosmetics for children under 3

Commonly found in

Baked goodsJamsPickled productsBeerSyrups

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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LabelCleared verdict badge: Propylparaben in Food — Avoid
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