Propylparaben

Also known as: E217, Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate

Preservative · E217

US-EU Regulatory Divergence

This additive has different regulatory status in the US and EU — what's permitted in one region may be restricted or banned in the other.

Regulatory Status

United States (FDA)

GRAS

FDA GRAS status as a food preservative.

European Union (EFSA)

Banned

Banned as food additive in EU since 2006 due to endocrine disruption concerns.

Safety Profile

US-EU DIVERGENCE: FDA considers it GRAS; EU banned it from food in 2006. The endocrine disruption evidence was sufficient for EU but not FDA action.

Health Concerns

  • Endocrine disruptor — mimics estrogen
  • Linked to reproductive toxicity in animal studies
  • May affect fertility

Commonly Found In

Baked goodsBeveragesSome tortillas

Sources: FDA Substances Added to Food, EFSA opinions, EU Regulation 1333/2008, IARC monographs

SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.