| E218 is a food additive
approved by the European Union (EU) and used as an antifungal synthetic
preservative
in food products, drugs and
cosmetics. It is more effective against yeasts
and fungi than against bacteria.
The common names of E218 are methyl p-hydroxybenzoate and methyl
paraben.
Once absorbed through the skin, E218 is hydrolysed
to p-hydroxybenzoic
acid. This is then rapidly excreted before being
able to accumulate in the body. There are some concerns that, when used
in cosmetics, E218 may increase the liklihood of some contact allergies.
There have been some reports that E218 may be associated
withinstances of numb mouth, as well as irritation to the skin.
Examples of food/drink products that may include E218:
Alcoholic drinks, ice cream, baked goods, medicine.
Note(1) that the list of Food
Additives (E Numbers) included in this section and listed on the left
is subject to change as more chemicals are added by the EU Regulatory
Authorities. IvyRose cannot guarantee that this list complete.
Note(2) These numbers are also used in Australia and
New Zealand but without the E.
Government approvals
and other regulatory details are subject to change.
This
was added on 16 July 2008. If details are important to you, check
with relevant agencies.
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