E219Preservative

Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

Learn what Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate (E219) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Moderate concern

What is Sodium salt of methyl 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 less effective against bacteria. Its activity is not influenced by the acidity of the food.

Why is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate added to food?

Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate (E219) is a preservative commonly found in: Baked goods.

Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 10 mg/kg body weight.

Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe?

Moderate concern

In some individuals, benzoates may cause mild pseudoallergic reactions. Additionally, parabens (E 214, E 215, E 218, E 219) appear to have an estrogenic effect (increasing estrogen production). When combined with azo food colorants, they may contribute to hyperactivity in children (ADHD syndrome).

Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate banned anywhere?

✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.

Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate okay for kids?

Not allowed in products for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

  • Baked goods

See the full list of foods that contain Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

How to spot Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E219
  • Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • sodium salt of methyl pard-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium $alt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt ot methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodlum salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl dara-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl pdra-hydroxybenzoate
  • $odium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzodte
  • sodium sdlt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt oi methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

Better alternatives

• May cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes or swelling in individuals sensitive to para-hydroxybenzoates. • Not recommended for 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.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • sodium salt of methyl pard-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium $alt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt ot methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodlum salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl dara-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl pdra-hydroxybenzoate
  • $odium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzodte
  • sodium sdlt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate
  • sodium salt oi methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E219 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate

Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe to eat?
In some individuals, benzoates may cause mild pseudoallergic reactions. Additionally, parabens (E 214, E 215, E 218, E 219) appear to have an estrogenic effect (increasing estrogen production). When combined with azo food colorants, they may contribute to hyperactivity in children (ADHD syndrome).
Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate banned anywhere?
Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate safe for children?
Not allowed in products for infants and young children.
How do I spot Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate on a food label?
Look for E219, Sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium salt of methyl pard-hydroxybenzoate, sodium $alt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate, sodium salt of methyl para-hydroxybenzoate.

Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.