Propylparaben, is a propyl ester of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, which itself is a derivative of benzoic acid. Although it occurs naturally, all commercial propylparabens are synthesized. Because of their relative non-toxicity and how rapidly they are absorbed, metabolized and excreted, propylparabens are used in products as a preservative, for antimicrobial purposes or as flavoring agent in a large number of products–over 25,000 cosmetic products alone, according to the Environmental Working Group. The FDA has recently initiated safety studies on propylparaben, but currently lists it as safe to use.
Antimicrobial
The FDA reports that the most common use of propylparaben is as an antimicrobial in water based products such as cosmetics, shampoos, moisturizers, conditioners and sunscreens. The exact number of products containing propylparabens is unknown, but food and cosmetic products sold at retail are required by law to list ingredients, so it is possible to determine if a specific product contains it.
Preservative
When used in combination with other preservatives, propylparabens protect against a broad range of microorganisms. This protective effect allows products to have a much longer shelf life and prevents molding and staling in items such as corn tortillas, according to research at Kansas State University.
Flavoring Agent
The FDA recognizes propylparabens as an acceptable food additive in concentrations of less than 1 percent (0.025 percent in jams and jellies). The Council Of Europe in a 2000 report lists propylparaben as a “flavoring substance or natural source of flavor” for use in all European Union countries.
