Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate (E217) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate?
Banned in EU. Paraben concerns
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Approved (GRAS)US name: Sodium Propylparaben
GRAS in US. Banned in EU
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNED (2006)Banned in EU. Paraben concerns
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNED (2006)UK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate is classified as a preservative in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is banned in the EU but approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate safe?
Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate vegan?
Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate banned in Europe?
Yes, Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate is banned in the EU. Banned in EU. Paraben concerns
What is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate made from?
Banned in EU. Paraben concerns
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate safe?
Is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate banned in any country?
What is Sodium Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate used for?
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