68.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 4 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
preservative · pH adjuster · fragrance ingredient · solvent
BENZOIC ACID, 2-AMINO-, METHYL ESTER
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Generally regarded as safe in low concentrations, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in low concentrations
- Not applied to broken skin
- Used in well-formulated products
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin
- You are pregnant or nursing
- You are using other active ingredients
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to benzoic acid
- You experience irritation upon use
- You are using on children without guidance
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, sunscreens. Generally safe in cosmetics when used as directed.
Food
Preserved fruits, soft drinks, pickles. Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, oral medications. Used in formulations with established safety profiles.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to benzoic acid methyl ester is generally well tolerated with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Oral ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation; however, toxicity is low.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk, but high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Ocular exposure may cause irritation; flushing with water is recommended if contact occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to irritants; use caution.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- breastfeeding — Low risk expected during breastfeeding.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults; monitor for any allergic reactions. |
| pregnant | Low to Moderate | Limited data on effects during pregnancy; use with caution. |
| infants_children | Moderate | Children may be more sensitive; avoid high concentrations. |
| breastfeeding | Low | Minimal risk expected; monitor for any adverse reactions. |
| elderly | Low to Moderate | Elderly may have increased sensitivity; use with caution. |
Toxicology Data
4 Endpoints
Benzoic acid, 2-amino-, methyl ester is generally safe in regulated uses, though sensitivity may occur.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating | Human patch test | Not a skin irritant | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | Not sensitizing | Human clinical study | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritant | Rabbit - Draize test | Mild irritation potential | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Benzoic acid, 2-amino-, methyl ester is generally safe in regulated uses, though sensitivity may occur.
- Used as a preservative in various products
- Regulatory assessments support its safety
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Benzoic Acid and Its Salts
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 5%.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on the safety of benzoic acid and its salts
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food at specified limits.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additives Permitted for Direct Addition to Food for Human Consumption
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Permitted as a food additive with established safety.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Generally permitted in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions with concentration limits. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations in food and cosmetics.
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food at regulated levels.
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Regulated under UK food and cosmetic laws.
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Allowed in cosmetics and food with concentration limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safe, some individuals may experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Consult a healthcare provider before using products with benzoic acid during pregnancy.
Potential side effects include skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:14:09.345203Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.