Methyl Paraben
Methyl Paraben is a white to off-white crystalline powder widely used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is a member of the paraben family of preservatives known for their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi. Methyl Paraben helps extend the shelf life of products by preventing microbial growth without affecting the product’s texture or color.
Methyl Paraben
Primary UsesÂ
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
- Preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup to prevent microbial contamination.
- Enhances product stability and shelf life.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Used as a preservative in topical formulations, syrups, and injectables to inhibit microbial growth.
- Food Industry
- Acts as a preservative in baked goods, beverages, and processed foods to prevent spoilage.
Secondary Uses
- Industrial Applications
- Used in the preservation of adhesives and inks to prevent bacterial degradation.
- Laboratory Reagent
- Employed as a preservative in biological and chemical reagents.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
- Common/Trade Name: Methyl Paraben
- CAS Number: 99-76-3
- HS Code: 2916.39.00
- Synonyms: Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate; E218; Parahydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder or crystalline solid
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless or faint aromatic odor
- Melting Point: 125 – 128°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform
- Density: Approx. 1.32 g/cm³
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous at typical use concentrations
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally recognized as safe (GRAS) at regulated levels
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits; standard handling precautions
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from strong oxidizers
- Container Type: Supplied in sealed bags or containers
- Shelf Life: Typically 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; use gloves and dust masks if necessary
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with FDA, USP, and European pharmacopoeia standards
- Approved as a food preservative (E218) and cosmetic preservative under various regulations
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when used as directed
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, and safety goggles recommended during handling
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of dust
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored away from incompatible materials
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if symptoms occur
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible solid
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Wear protective equipment to avoid dust inhalation
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides and other toxic fumes under fire conditions
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