Ingredient · E422

Humectant: Glycerol

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Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Glycerol is used as a humectant, a substance that helps retain moisture. This keeps …

What it is

Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is a simple sugar alcohol. It is a clear, colorless, odorless, and viscous liquid. Glycerol can be produced from both plant and animal fats and oils, or synthetically from petroleum.

Why it's used

Glycerol is used as a humectant, a substance that helps retain moisture. This keeps foods from drying out and helps maintain their texture. It is commonly found in confectionery, baked goods, and processed meats.

Health notes

Glycerol is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is metabolized by the body differently than sugar and provides fewer calories. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated glycerol and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.

Allergen info

Glycerol is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Humectant: Glycerol

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DRE Medical Group, Inc. Elite, Must, Fruit Flavored Sugar Free Chewing Gum, Orange Banana, Orange Banana Chewing Gum & Mints 143kcal 0Protein 0Fat 71.4Carbs GS1 Ireland Promise, Lemon Cake Other Frozen Desserts 418kcal 2.8Protein 21.5Fat 52.5Carbs GS1 Ireland Double Chocolate Muffins Croissants, Sweet Rolls, Muffins & Other Pastries 428kcal 3.1Protein 21.2Fat 56.5Carbs Vidal Candies USA Mini Licorice Candy Cane, Strawberry Candy 375kcal 2.5Protein 5Fat 82.5Carbs Beltrade A Collection Of Fine Belgian Chocolates Chocolate High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving 548kcal 4.8Protein 35.7Fat 54.8Carbs Casey's General Stores, Inc. Super Sour Mix, Super Sour Candy High in added sugars — 30% DV per serving 346kcal 3.9Protein 0Fat 80.8Carbs McCoy Tool Co. Vidal, Baseballs Bubble Gum Chewing Gum & Mints 333kcal 0Protein 0Fat 77.8Carbs Biscuits GALLETAS GULLON S.A. Biscuits Snack, Energy & Granola Bars 435kcal 6.2Protein 14Fat 67Carbs McCoy Tool Co. Triple Bear Gummi Candy, Sour Candy 357kcal 4.8Protein 0Fat 81.0Carbs American Beverage Marketers Infused Syrup, Pumpkin Syrups & Molasses 269kcal 0Protein 0Fat 66.7Carbs Rondo Specialty Foods Ltd. Muesli & Cranberry Delicious Cookies, Muesli & Cranberry Cookies & Biscuits High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 467kcal 6.7Protein 23.3Fat 60Carbs Pineapple Rings Candy, Pineapple Candy Club, LLC Pineapple Rings Candy, Pineapple Wholesome Snacks 333kcal 4.8Protein 0Fat 83.3Carbs
Sugar (24 products) Corn Syrup (15 products) Blue 1 (14 products) Malic Acid (13 products) Color Yellow#5 (12 products) Gelatine (12 products) Natural And Artificial Flavor (11 products) Gelling Agent: Pectins (11 products) Red 40 (11 products) Acids: Citric Acid (8 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.