Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
Learn what Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate (E215) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate?
Food additive from the category of chemical preservatives. It is a derivative of benzoic acid (E 210). It is poorly soluble, but is still found in many food and cosmetic products. Used as a preservative against yeasts and molds, but is less effective against bacteria. Its activity is not influenced by the acidity of the food.
Why is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate added to food?
Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate (E215) is a preservative commonly found in: Confectionery products and snacks.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 10 mg/kg body weight.
Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe?
Moderate concern
In some individuals, benzoates can cause mild pseudo-allergic reactions. Also, parabens (E 214, E 215, E 218, E 219) seem to have estrogenic effects (increasing estrogen production). In combination with azo food colorants, they may promote hyperactivity in children (ADHD syndrome).
Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate okay for kids?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- Confectionery products and snacks
See the full list of foods that contain Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate →
How to spot Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E215
- Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodlum ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- $odium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl dara-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzodte
- sodium ethyl pdra-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl pard-hydroxybenzoate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling in sensitive individuals. • Not recommended for use in individuals with skin conditions or a sensitized immune system. • Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • Individuals with heightened sensitivity to preservatives should avoid this ingredient.
Also known as
- sodlum ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- $odium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl dara-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzodte
- sodium ethyl pdra-hydroxybenzoate
- sodium ethyl pard-hydroxybenzoate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E215 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate
- Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe to eat?
- In some individuals, benzoates can cause mild pseudo-allergic reactions. Also, parabens (E 214, E 215, E 218, E 219) seem to have estrogenic effects (increasing estrogen production). In combination with azo food colorants, they may promote hyperactivity in children (ADHD syndrome).
- Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate banned anywhere?
- Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe for children?
- Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate on a food label?
- Look for E215, Sodium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodlum ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate, $odium ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate, sodium ethyl dara-hydroxybenzoate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.