Ingredient · E216

Propyl Paraben Preservative

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Propyl paraben is added to foods to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and …

What it is

Propyl paraben is a synthetic compound commonly used as a preservative. It is a type of ester formed from p-hydroxybenzoic acid and propanol. It is manufactured through chemical synthesis.

Why it's used

Propyl paraben is added to foods to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, thus extending shelf life. It is often found in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries, as well as in some beverages and processed foods.

Health notes

In the United States, propyl paraben is permitted for use as a food preservative. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated parabens. Some studies have raised questions about potential endocrine-disrupting effects, but regulatory agencies generally consider them safe at the levels typically found in food. Research is ongoing, and evidence on health effects at low dietary levels is mixed.

Allergen info

Propyl paraben is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing Propyl 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 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 Superior Cake Products, Inc. Superior On Main, Iced Cookies, Vanilla Holiday Drizzle Cookies & Biscuits 400kcal 4Protein 20Fat 52Carbs

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.