Parabens are neutral esters, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and molds in many types of products with a very small quantity of dosage. They are effective in slightly alkaline as well as neutral or acidic media, in the range of 3 to 8 pH values, making them useful in many processes where the use of acidic preservatives or alkaline salts shows little inhibitory effects. Numerous studies have shown that the parabens are safe for use as a standard preservative in the food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and toiletries industries.