Ingredient · E1520

Propylene Glycol

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
In foods, propylene glycol acts as a humectant, helping to keep products moist, and …

What is Propylene Glycol?

Propylene glycol is a synthetic organic compound that appears as a clear, colorless, slightly thick liquid. It is produced from propylene oxide, which can be derived from petroleum or glycerol.

Is Propylene Glycol vegan?

Propylene Glycol is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Propylene Glycol a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Propylene Glycol used for?

In foods, propylene glycol acts as a humectant, helping to keep products moist, and as a solvent for flavors and colors.

Is Propylene Glycol safe?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers propylene glycol to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food.

Why it's used

In foods, propylene glycol acts as a humectant, helping to keep products moist, and as a solvent for flavors and colors. It also functions as an emulsifier and stabilizer, commonly found in baked goods, flavorings, liquid water enhancers, and powdered drinks.

Health notes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers propylene glycol to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated propylene glycol and established an acceptable daily intake. At typical intake levels found in food, it is considered safe.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Propylene Glycol

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

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.