Ingredient

Methyl Paraben Preservative

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Methylparaben is used to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast in foods. …

What it is

Methylparaben is a type of paraben, which are chemicals used as preservatives. It is synthesized from p-hydroxybenzoic acid, often derived from petroleum products. It is commonly produced through the esterification of p-hydroxybenzoic acid with methanol.

Why it's used

Methylparaben is used to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast in foods. This helps extend the shelf life of packaged goods. It is often found in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries.

Health notes

Methylparaben is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated parabens. Some studies have raised questions about potential endocrine-disrupting effects, but major regulatory agencies have concluded that parabens are safe at the levels typically used in food. Evidence is mixed, and research is ongoing.

Allergen info

Methylparaben is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Methyl Paraben Preservative

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Superior Cake Products, Inc. Orange Drizzle Iced Cookies, Orange Cookies & Biscuits 409kcal 4.5Protein 18.2Fat 59.1Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Lemon Drizzle Iced Cookies, Lemon Drizzle Cookies & Biscuits 409kcal 4.5Protein 18.2Fat 59.1Carbs FGF LLC Iced Chocolate Pound Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 27% DV per serving 416kcal 6.2Protein 14.2Fat 65.5Carbs FGF LLC Cake, Butter Pound Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 37% DV per serving 372kcal 5.3Protein 15.0Fat 54.0Carbs FGF LLC The Original Old Fashioned Sour Cream Crumb Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 35% DV per serving 460kcal 6.2Protein 20.4Fat 62.8Carbs FGF LLC Banana Nut Muffin Croissants, Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Other Pastries High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 433kcal 5.5Protein 24.4Fat 48.8Carbs FGF LLC The Original Lemon Loaf Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 27% DV per serving 432kcal 6.2Protein 14.8Fat 66.7Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Daffies Lemon Iced Cookies, Daffies Lemon Cookies & Biscuits 391kcal 4.3Protein 17.4Fat 56.5Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Poppies Orange Iced Cookies, Orange Cookies & Biscuits 391kcal 4.3Protein 17.4Fat 56.5Carbs FGF LLC Muffin, Double Chocolate Chip Croissants, Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Other Pastries High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 32% DV per serving 370kcal 6.3Protein 14.2Fat 54.3Carbs FGF LLC The Original Pumpkin Spice Loaf Breads & Buns High in sodium — 23% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 32% DV per serving 381kcal 5.3Protein 15.9Fat 53.1Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Superior On Main, Winter Wonderland Iced Cookies Cookies & Biscuits 435kcal 4.3Protein 17.4Fat 65.2Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.