Parabens

Parabens are a type of preservative commonly used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to prevent the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. They are also used in food and beverage products. Parabens are derived from para-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) that occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables.

History

Parabens were first commercialized in the 1950s due to their stability and low cost. They are effective preservatives because they have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and are considered safe for human use.

Types of Parabens

There are several types of parabens used in various products. These include:

• Methylparaben
• Ethylparaben
• Propylparaben
• Butylparaben
• Isobutylparaben

Health Concerns

There have been some health concerns associated with the use of parabens. Some studies have suggested that parabens can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body's cells, and exposure to external estrogens has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that parabens are safe for use in cosmetics, and the European Union has also deemed them safe for use.

Regulation

In the United States, the FDA regulates the use of parabens in food and cosmetics. In the European Union, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) regulates the use of parabens in food, while the European Medicines Agency (EMA) regulates their use in pharmaceuticals.

See Also

• Preservative
• Cosmetics
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food and Drug Administration
• European Union

Parabens Resources
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