Methylparaben has been used as a preservative used in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries for over 50 years.  It may also found naturally in fruits like blueberries where it has antimicrobial activity.

Methylparaben is completely absorbed through the skin or after ingestion, and it is hydrolyzed to para-hydroxybenzoic acid, and metabolites are rapidly excreted in the urine. There is no evidence of accumulation. It is on the FDA generally regarded as safe list.