MEA-BENZOATE is graded C (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexIII-SAFETY-.
MEA-BENZOATE
Safety grade: C
This preservative is permitted in EU cosmetics up to a maximum concentration under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. To be sold legally in the EU or UK, a product must stay within this limit.
This ingredient protects cosmetic and personal care products from microbial contamination, extending shelf life and keeping the product safe to use.
Graded using: COSING.
- EU COSING — Restricted
- EU COSING — Restricted use
Last verified: June 9, 2026
Safer alternatives to MEA-BENZOATE
- POTASSIUM SORBATE — Grade B. Broad-spectrum preservative that prevents microbial growth in cosmetics.
- SORBIC ACID — Grade B. Natural preservative that inhibits bacterial and fungal contamination.
- PHENOXYETHANOL — Grade B**. Widely-used broad-spectrum preservative for extending product shelf life.
- DEHYDROACETIC ACID — Grade B. Synthetic preservative that protects against microbial spoilage.
Other Preservative ingredients
- SODIUM BENZOATE — Grade C
- BENZYL ALCOHOL — Grade C**
- BENZOIC ACID — Grade C**
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C
- METHYLPARABEN — Grade C
- SALICYLIC ACID — Grade C**