67.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
preservative · fragrance · solvent · emollient
BENZOIC ACID, 2-HYDROXY-, 3-METHYLBUTYL ESTER
Category
chemical compound
Bottom Line: Generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- Used in concentrations below regulatory limits
- Not applied to broken skin
- Used in well-ventilated areas
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- You have sensitive skin or allergies
- Using in combination with other active ingredients
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
✕ Avoid If:
- You have a known allergy to benzoic acid or its derivatives
- Using on open wounds or irritated skin
- Exceeding recommended usage levels
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, body lotions. Generally safe in cosmetic formulations at regulated levels.
Food
Soft drinks, pickled vegetables, jams. Used as a preservative; safe within established limits.
Pharmaceutical
Topical ointments, oral medications. Safe in pharmaceuticals when used as directed.
Supplement
Dietary supplements, nutraceuticals. Generally safe in dietary supplements at recommended doses.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Dermal exposure to this ester is generally well tolerated with low irritation potential.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation; caution is advised.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation exposure is typically low risk but may cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: Moderate
Eye contact may cause irritation; rinsing is recommended if exposure occurs.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity to chemical exposure.
- pregnant — Limited safety data; consult healthcare provider.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with low risk.
- elderly — Generally well tolerated; monitor for reactions.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated; monitor for any adverse reactions. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity to chemicals; potential for adverse effects. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated; monitor for any unusual reactions. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, 3-methylbutyl ester is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food, 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 | No significant irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human patch test | No sensitization reactions reported | 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-hydroxy-, 3-methylbutyl ester is generally safe for use in cosmetics and food, though sensitivity may occur.
- Used as a preservative and fragrance
- Regulatory assessments support its safety
- May cause 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: Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) established; safe for food use.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status List
Year: 2021
Conclusion: Permitted as a food additive; safe within specified limits.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Regulatory status is generally favorable across major jurisdictions with concentration limits. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations
EU
European CommissionPERMITTED
Concentration limits apply
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
Concentration limits apply
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
Limited to specific concentrations
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally safe for use in cosmetics at regulated concentrations, though some may experience irritation.
Yes, it is permitted in food products within established limits, but check for allergies.
Potential risks include skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-19T18:16:53.954059Z | — | 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.