Polyglycerol Esters

Polyglycerol esters are made from glycerol, a sugar alcohol, and fatty acids, which are fats. They are produced by combining glycerol molecules together and then reacting them with fatty acids. This process creates a versatile ingredient used in food manufacturing.

Polyglycerol esters act as emulsifiers, helping to mix ingredients that normally don't blend well, like oil and water. They improve texture and stability in baked goods, shortenings, and dairy products. You'll often find them in cakes, cookies, and frostings.

In the U.S., polyglycerol esters are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as emulsifiers. They are typically consumed in small amounts as part of processed foods. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated similar substances, and they are permitted for use in many regions. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.