Is Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (surfactant).
INCI name SODIUM METHYL COCOYL TAURATE. Also called Taurate surfactant. CAS 61791-42-2.
Other names: Taurate Surfactant, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurine
Is Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel, Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner, Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser |
| CAS number | 61791-42-2 |
What is Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate?
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate is an anionic acyl taurate surfactant derived from coconut oil and taurine (an amino sulfonic acid). It produces a fine, stable foam and is known for its very low irritation potential and excellent skin feel.
Why is Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate used in personal-care products?
Used as a primary or co-surfactant in sensitive skin, baby, and natural formulations for gentle cleansing and conditioning. Its taurine backbone makes it highly biocompatible.
Is Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate dangerous? Documented risks
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate has a very good safety profile with minimal irritation or sensitization potential. No carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicity concerns are documented. It is broadly compatible with skin microbiome health and does not significantly disrupt the skin barrier.
Products that may contain Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
- Mustela Gentle Cleansing Gel
- Dr. Bronner's Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner
- Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser
How to avoid Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate: safer alternatives
Sodium cocoyl isethionate or disodium laureth sulfosuccinate as similarly gentle alternatives.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Is sodium methyl cocoyl taurate a natural ingredient?
It is derived from natural sources (coconut oil and taurine) and is accepted in many natural-positioned cosmetic formulations, though it requires chemical processing.
Is it safe for use on babies?
Yes. It is considered one of the mildest surfactants available and appears in baby wash formulas.
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Sources
- EWG Skin Deep: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate — Environmental Working Group
- CosIng: Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate — European Commission CosIng
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.