Sodium Levulinate
Sodium levulinate has been reviewed as safe at typical cosmetic-use concentrations and shows low toxicity. As a food ingredient, levulinic acid and its salts are GRAS for use as flavor adjuvants.
What it is
Sodium salt of levulinic acid, a naturally occurring organic acid derived from carbohydrate (sugar) fermentation.
Antimicrobial preservative and pH adjuster; primarily used in cosmetics/personal care, occasionally in foods as a 'natural' preservative.
Why it's flagged
- limited long-term human data when used as a food preservative
What regulators actually say
"21 CFR 172.515 lists levulinic acid as a synthetic flavoring substance and adjuvant generally recognized as safe for use in food."
"The Panel concluded that levulinic acid and sodium levulinate are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Levulinic acid is GRAS under 21 CFR 172.515 as a synthetic flavoring substance.
European Union — EFSA
No specific E-number; permitted as a cosmetic ingredient and as a flavoring under EU regulations.
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