EU committee calls for more data on parabens safety
Propylparabens and butylparabens come under question following review of latest studies
The European Union’s (EU) scientific committee on consumer safety has called for more data on whether parabens, a widely used ingredient in cosmetic products, are dangerous in the amounts currently authorised under the cosmetics directive. This is a maximum content of 0.4% when used alone or 0.8% within a mixture of esters.
Following a review of the latest studies, the committee said “while much toxicological data on parabens in rodents exists, adequate evidence has not been provided for the safe use of propyl- or butylparaben in cosmetics.” As a result, “the committee called for an improvement of the data…”
The review follows a series of claims that these chemicals are unsafe, notably by NGO Environmental Working Group has argued propylparaben can damage human hormonal systems. In 2011, Denmark banned propyl- and butylparaben in cosmetics for children under three years old. In its latest opinion, the committee said “18g sunscreen per day per person…represents a realistic amount…for babies, children and adults.”