METHYL PARABEN
Methylparaben is a widely used preservative in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. It belongs to the paraben family of compounds, which are esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid.Chemical Name: Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
CAS Number: 99-76-3
Molecular Formula: C8H8O3
Molecular Weight: 152.15 g/mol
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in alcohol and ether
Mechanism of Action:
- Methylparaben exhibits antimicrobial properties by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria and fungi, thereby inhibiting their growth.
- It is effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity
- Cost-effective and widely available
- Stable over a wide pH range
- Low sensitizing potential
Applications:
- Pharmaceutical formulations: Preservative in oral and topical preparations, injections, and ophthalmic solutions
- Cosmetic products: Preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, and other personal care products
- Food products: Preservative in various processed foods and beverages
Storage and Handling:
- Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place.
- Protect from light and moisture.
Regulatory Status:
- Approved for use as a preservative in various countries, subject to specific concentration limits.
- Classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food.
Important Note:
Methylparaben API is intended for use by manufacturers and should not be consumed directly. It must be incorporated into finished products at appropriate concentrations. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to parabens.