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E1520Caution

Propylene glycol

Group: Other · in the book

Harm level3 of 5In moderation

In plain words

Propylene glycol is a colourless liquid that dissolves flavourings and colours and keeps foods moist. You meet it in flavoured drinks, confectionery, baked goods and icings, mainly as a carrier for flavourings.

Where you find it: flavourings, icings, confectionery

Our recommendation

Limit products containing it; infants and young children should get as little as possible.

Possible risks and effects

  • No relevant risk known at amounts from food.
  • Infants and people with kidney or liver disease clear it more slowly.
  • A marker of highly industrial products.

For experts

Propylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol) is a synthetic diol metabolised in the liver to lactic acid and pyruvate. In the EU it is used mainly as a carrier and solvent for flavourings, colours and other additives, with a restricted residual level in food. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation confirmed an ADI of 25 mg/kg body weight per day.

Check another E-number

More from this group

E551Silicon dioxide (silica)E554Sodium aluminium silicateE900DimethylpolysiloxaneE535–E538FerrocyanidesE290Carbon dioxideE422GlycerolE509Calcium chlorideE516Calcium sulphate

This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.