Is Methylparaben (E218) Halal?

MUIS lists E218 (Methylparaben) as halal. It is manufactured synthetically from non-animal raw materials. The status applies to the additive itself; the finished product still needs its other ingredients checked.

Methylparaben (methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate) is the most water-soluble of the paraben preservatives, manufactured from benzoic acid. It is effective against moulds and yeasts across a wide pH range.

• baked goods
• sauces
• beverages
• cosmetics
• pharmaceuticals

• E218 on its own is not a reason to avoid a product.
• The finished product still needs its other ingredients checked — look for a halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) when in doubt.
• Halal status here follows the MUIS food additive listing; rulings can differ between certification bodies.

sorbic acid (E200), potassium sorbate (E202), benzoic acid (E210)

E218 (Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate/Methylparaben) is halal for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Methylparaben (methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate) is the most water-soluble of the paraben preservatives, manufactured from benzoic acid.

Methylparaben (methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate) is the most water-soluble of the paraben preservatives, manufactured from benzoic acid. It is effective against moulds and yeasts across a wide pH range.

E218 is commonly found in baked goods, sauces, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.