Scientific advice – children’s exposure to Methyl salicylate (methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate) - Revision of SCCS/1654/23

SCCS members: U. Bernauer, L. Bodin, Q. Chaudhry, P.J. Coenraads (Chairperson), J. Ezendam, E. Gaffet, C. L. Galli, E. Panteri, V. Rogiers, Ch. Rousselle (Rapporteur), M. Stepnik, T. Vanhaecke, S. Wijnhoven
SCCS external experts: E. Benfentati, N. Cabaton, E. Corsini, A. Koutsodimou, H. Louro , W. Uter, N. von Goetz
Contact: SANTE-SCCS@ec.europa.eu
On request from: European Commission
SCCS Number: SCCS/1676/25
Adopted on: 17 January 2025

Conclusion of the opinion:

(1) Taking under consideration the conclusions of SCCS/1658/23 and the aggregate exposure, the SCCS is requested to re-assess the maximum concentration of Methyl Salicylate that is considered safe when used in products intended for children of age 0-3.

The SCCS is of the view that, to be considered safe, the concentration of Methyl Salicylate should not exceed 0.45 % in toothpaste and 0.02% in other products when used in products intended for children of age 0-3 years.

2) Does the SCCS have any further scientific concerns with regard to the use of Methyl Salicylate in cosmetic products and children’s exposure?

The SCCS mandates do not address environmental aspects. Therefore, this assessment did not cover the safety of Methyl Salicylate for the environment.

Keywords:

SCCS, scientific advice, methyl salicylate, methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate, children exposure, Regulation 1223/2009

Opinion to be cited as:

SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety), Scientific Advice on methyl salicylate (methyl 2-hydroxybenzoate) – children exposure, version of 17 January 2025, SCCS/1676/25.