E219 - Sodium Methyl P-hydroxybenzoate

Author: Victoria Aly Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

E 219 is used as a preservative in various food products, medicines, cosmetics. This food supplement preserves the products, preventing the growth of various bacteria and fungi.

Characteristic

E 219 is used as a preservative in various food products, medicines, cosmetics. This food additive preserves the products, preventing the growth of various bacteria and fungi, it is chemically sterilized and is used for wine maturation or as a disinfectant. It is a white crystalline powder, in contact with the skin can cause a slight anesthetic effect. It dissolves well in water, and is slightly soluble in alcohol and acids. The preservative is excreted from the body by the kidneys, practically, in pure form. The permissible daily amount for a person is not more than 10 mg / kg - this is an absolutely harmless dose.

E 219 occurs naturally (in most fruits, especially forest fruits; mushrooms, cinnamon, cloves, and some dairy products), however, the preservative is chemically derived from toluene and then esterified.

Use

The additive belongs to the group of sulfites, which belong to the chemically sterilizing additives, as a result of which they protect the products from fungi, microbes and bacteriophages, stop rotting and fermentation.

Sodium methyl p-hydroxy benzoate is permitted in almost all countries around the world for the preservation of a number of products. It is sometimes used in conjunction with benzoates, sorbic acid or potassium sorbate. In addition, it is allowed to add to various soups, broths (but not enclosed in jars), confectionery with a high sugar content (chocolate, candies with filling), liquid biologically active additives and dried meat products.

The preservative is widely used in cosmetics (shampoos, lotions, creams, shower gels, etc.).

Effects on the body

No harmful properties of E 219 have been found , however, according to information from independent studies, the substance causes cancer, there is a risk of an allergic reaction (mainly skin) in case of individual intolerance of the body.

E219 - Sodium Methyl P-hydroxybenzoate

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic

Use

Effects on the body

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