Ethylparaben
Score impact
-0.50
points/product
Description
The food additive E214, known as ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate or ethylparaben, belongs to the family of parabens, which are esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid. It is used as a preservative in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals due to its antimicrobial activity against bacteria, molds, and yeasts. Industrially, it is obtained by esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid with ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst.
It is a white crystalline powder, slightly soluble in water and soluble in ethanol and oils. Its main function is to inhibit microbial growth, extending the shelf life of products.
It was approved in the European Union as a food additive in the 1970s, although its use has been subject to review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0-10 mg/kg body weight for parabens (E214-E219) as a group.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has also evaluated these compounds, considering them safe at authorized doses. However, there are controversies regarding their possible weak estrogenic activity, which has led to restrictions in some products. On labeling, it must appear as 'E214' or 'ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate'. The food safety of this additive continues to be monitored, and its use is permitted in certain processed foods under specific limits.
E214 is mainly used in processed foods as a preservative to prevent spoilage by microorganisms. Authorized food categories in the EU include: dehydrated soups and broths, gelatins, confectionery products (such as candies and chewing gum), non-alcoholic flavored beverages, sauces and dressings, and heat-treated meat products. Examples of products on the Spanish market: some brands of soup mixes, dessert gelatins, and certain fruit soft drinks. Authorized limits vary by product, for example, up to 500 mg/kg in dehydrated soups and up to 1000 mg/kg in gelatins.
Compared to the FDA, the United States allows the use of parabens in foods, but with similar restrictions. Japan also authorizes them, although with lower limits in some cases. It is important to note that the use of E214 has declined in favor of natural preservatives due to the negative perception of parabens.
Documented side effects of E214 are limited at authorized doses. In vitro and animal studies have shown weak estrogenic activity, which has raised concerns about possible endocrine-disrupting effects. However, EFSA concluded that dietary exposure to parabens does not pose a risk to human health at current levels.
No significant adverse effects in humans have been reported from consumption of foods containing E214. Sensitive populations such as children or pregnant women have no specific restrictions, although moderation is recommended. No interactions with medications are known. The WHO also considers parabens safe at the doses used.
In summary, although controversy exists, regulatory bodies maintain their approval based on available evidence.
- Ethylparaben
- Ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate
- PHB ethyl ester
- p-hydroxybenzoic acid ethyl ester
- Nipasol M
Classification:
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