Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid occurs naturally in some plant foods and is used in OTC drugs and cosmetics rather than as a food additive. Salicylate-sensitive individuals can react to it, and oral salicylates are associated with Reye's syndrome in children with viral illness; very large doses are toxic.
What it is
Beta hydroxy acid (2-hydroxybenzoic acid); a naturally occurring plant compound that is also produced synthetically.
Not typically used as a food additive; common in cosmetics (acne, exfoliation) and as a precursor to aspirin.
Why it's flagged
- salicylate sensitivity
- Reye's syndrome risk in children with viral illness (salicylate class)
What regulators actually say
"Salicylic acid is approved as an OTC active for acne and wart removal at specified concentrations."
"Aspirin and other salicylate-containing medications should not be given to children with viral illness due to risk of Reye's syndrome."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
OTC drug active ingredient (acne, wart removal); not a permitted food additive at levels used in cosmetics
European Union — EFSA
Restricted in cosmetics (Annex III); not a food additive
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