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Propylene Glycol(E1520)

Level 3 — ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary2 sources

Propylene Glycol is a humectant — Clear, colorless, viscous liquid; humectant, emulsifier, antifreeze in breweries/dairy

Also: 1,2-Propanediol, Propan-1,2-diol

What it does

Clear, colorless, viscous liquid; humectant, emulsifier, antifreeze in breweries/dairy

Where you'll see it

confectionery, chocolate products, ice cream emulsifiers, shredded coconut, beverages, baked goods, toppings, frostings, meat products; brewery/dairy antifreeze

What the research says

Large oral doses in animals reported to cause central nervous system depression and slight kidney changes. Solvent for many active ingredients (drugs migrating into food). [metabolical] Industrial solvent used as a carrier for 'natural flavor' compounds. Routinely paired with polysorbate 80 emulsifier and BHA preservative, contributing to combined detergent/oxidative load on the gut.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: Use being reduced; replaced by safer glycols (glycerin, polyethylene glycol)

Sources

  • Metabolical (Lustig) — Chapter 20: since most flavors are nonpolar, it usually means there's an emulsifier (e.g., polysorbate 80), a solvent (e.g., propylene glycol)
  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Large oral doses in animals have been reported to cause central nervous system depression and slight kidney changes. Propylene glycol and other glycol compounds are used as solvents