Glycerol
What is Glycerol?
Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is a simple sugar alcohol. It is a clear, colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is sweet-tasting and non-toxic. Glycerol can be produced from plant oils, animal fats, or petroleum.
Is Glycerol gluten-free?
Glycerol is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA and does not contain gluten.
What is Glycerol used for?
Manufacturers add glycerol to foods as a humectant (to retain moisture), solvent, sweetener, and preservative.
Is Glycerol safe?
Glycerol is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add glycerol to foods as a humectant (to retain moisture), solvent, sweetener, and preservative. It is commonly found in baked goods, confectionery, frostings, and low-fat foods.
Health notes
Glycerol is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is metabolized differently than sugar and does not significantly raise blood sugar levels. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated glycerol and established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI). Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.
Allergen info
Glycerol is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA and does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Glycerol
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