Ingredient

Methyl Paraben

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Methyl paraben is an antimicrobial agent used to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, …

What it is

Methyl paraben is a member of the paraben family, which are chemicals that occur naturally in some fruits. In food, it is typically produced synthetically. It is often used as a preservative.

Why it's used

Methyl paraben is an antimicrobial agent used to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria in foods. It is commonly found in baked goods, dairy products, and processed foods to extend shelf life.

Health notes

Methyl paraben is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food preservative. It is approved for use in many countries. While some studies have raised questions about potential endocrine-disrupting effects, major regulatory bodies like the FDA, EFSA, and JECFA have reviewed the available evidence and concluded that parabens are safe at the levels typically used in food. Evidence is mixed on long-term health effects at high doses.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Products containing Methyl Paraben

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Topco Associates, Inc. White Corn Taco Style Tortillas, White Corn Mexican Dinner Mixes 216kcal 3.9Protein 2.0Fat 43.1Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Swiss Goodie Raisins, Roasted Peanuts, Milk Chocolate Pokies & Roasted Almonds Trail Mix, Swiss Goodie Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 467kcal 13.3Protein 26.7Fat 50Carbs Topco Associates, Inc. Swiss Goodie Raisins, Roasted Peanuts, Milk Chocolate Pokies & Roasted Almonds Trail Mix, Swiss Goodie Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 467kcal 13.3Protein 26.7Fat 50Carbs Turkey Hill Dairy Inc. Ice Cream Cake, Vanilla & Chocolate Swirl Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 267kcal 3.5Protein 15.1Fat 31.4Carbs Uncle Harry's, Inc. Premium Ice Cream Cake, Chocolate & Vanilla Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 256kcal 3.5Protein 13.9Fat 32.6Carbs Northern Tier Bakery LLC Pleasanthill Ovens, Cheese Coffee Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 423kcal 5.6Protein 22.5Fat 52.1Carbs Uncle Harry's, Inc. Premium Ice Cream Cake, Chocolate & Vanilla Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 253kcal 3.5Protein 13.8Fat 32.2Carbs Hometown Foods USA, Inc Louisiana Crunch Crumb Bundt Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 316kcal 3.5Protein 10.5Fat 50.9Carbs Buttercup Bakeries Inc Red Velvet Cake Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 368kcal 2.9Protein 17.6Fat 50Carbs La Guadalupana Wholesale Co., Inc. Dry Masa For Tamales Crusts & Dough 100kcal 3.3Protein 0Fat 23.3Carbs Calorie Free Sweetener Sugar Up Country Naturals Of Vermont, Inc. Calorie Free Sweetener Sugar Granulated, Brown & Powdered Sugar 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs MJAY's Specialty Baked Foods Inc. Celebration Platter, Patriotic Iced Brownie Platter Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 375kcal 2.5Protein 11.2Fat 65Carbs

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.