This highly efficacious preservative which has been around for hundreds of years is sourced from para-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) that occurs naturally in many fruits and vegetables. It marks its use in personal care, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

Sodium propylparaben is a white, odorless or almost odorless, crystalline powder that's used as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and foods: 

Uses

Sodium propylparaben is used as an antifungal preservative in many cosmetic and food products, such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products. It's also used in oral pharmaceuticals. 

Properties

Sodium propylparaben is a member of the paraben family, which are esters formed by p-hydroxybenzoic acid and an alcohol. It's produced naturally by plants and bacteria. 

Toxicity

Sodium propylparaben is moderately toxic by ingestion and the IP route, and toxic by the IV route. It can cause allergic contact dermatitis, asthma, rashes, and hyperactivity. 

Handling precautions

Avoid inhalation or contact with eyes, skin, and clothing, and avoid prolonged or repeated exposure. Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves, eye/face protection, and a respirator.