Ingredient · E216

Propylparaben Preservative

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add propylparaben to foods to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. …

What it is

Propylparaben is a synthetic chemical used as a preservative. It is part of a group of compounds called parabens, which are esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid, and is produced through chemical synthesis.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add propylparaben to foods to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. This helps to extend the shelf life of products like baked goods, desserts, and some beverages.

Health notes

Propylparaben is an FDA-approved food additive. JECFA has evaluated propylparaben and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated parabens, including propylparaben. While some concerns have been raised regarding parabens potentially acting as endocrine disruptors, major regulatory bodies generally consider them safe at typical intake levels in food. However, California's Food Safety Act (AB 418) bans propylparaben in food from 2027.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Products containing Propylparaben Preservative

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Superior Cake Products, Inc. Orange Chocolate Drizzle Iced Cookies, Orange Cookies & Biscuits 478kcal 4.3Protein 26.1Fat 60.9Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Iced Cookies, Mint Chocolate Drizzle Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 4.5Protein 22.7Fat 59.1Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Bake Shop Cup Cake Cookies, Strawberry Iced Cookies With A Vanilla Squiggle Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 4.5Protein 20.4Fat 63.6Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Cupcake Cookies, Lemon Iced Cookies With A Vanilla Squiggle Cookies & Biscuits 455kcal 4.5Protein 20.4Fat 63.6Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Black & White Iced Cookies, Chocolate + Vanilla Cookies & Biscuits 400kcal 4Protein 20Fat 52Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Lemon Bundt Cake, Lemon Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 368kcal 4.0Protein 14.5Fat 56.6Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Iced Cookies, Strawberry Drizzle Cookies & Biscuits 409kcal 4.5Protein 18.2Fat 59.1Carbs Superior Cake Products, Inc. Cupcake Cookies Cookies & Biscuits High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 550kcal 5Protein 35Fat 55Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Strawberry Bundt Cake, Strawberry Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 382kcal 4.0Protein 17.1Fat 52.6Carbs Maplehurst Bakeries, LLC Creative Occasions, Coconut Cake Other Frozen Desserts High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 349kcal 4.7Protein 17.4Fat 41.9Carbs Maplehurst Bakeries, LLC Creative Occasions, Lemon Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 392kcal 2.5Protein 19.0Fat 53.2Carbs The Kroger Co. Gourmet Cinnamon Roll Maple Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in sodium — 25% DV per serving 367kcal 7.0Protein 10.2Fat 61.7Carbs

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.