Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Learn what Polyvinylpyrrolidone (E1201) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Polyvinylpyrrolidone?
A food additive used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, carrier for other additives, thickening agent, and glazing agent. It is a synthetic compound of mineral origin. Discovered in 1939, it was initially used as a human plasma substitute and has since found applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. In the food industry, it is used as a clarifying agent for beverages, to coat fresh fruits, and in dietary supplements in tablet or dragee form.
Why is Polyvinylpyrrolidone added to food?
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (E1201) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Fruit glazes, candies, dragees.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit has been established.
Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone safe?
Moderate concern
No secondary effects have been reported for the amounts used in food.
Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone okay for kids?
This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Polyvinylpyrrolidone
- Fruit glazes
- candies
- dragees
See the full list of foods that contain Polyvinylpyrrolidone →
How to spot Polyvinylpyrrolidone on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E1201
- Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Common misspellings to watch for:
- polyvinylpyrrolldone
- dolyvinylpyrrolidone
- polyvinylpyrrolidone
- polyvinyldyrrolidone
- polyvlnylpyrrolidone
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to polymers or certain ingredients in its composition. • Avoid consumption in large quantities by individuals with liver or kidney conditions. • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor. • May interfere with the absorption of certain medications, such as anticoagulants or hypertension medications.
Also known as
- polyvinylpyrrolldone
- dolyvinylpyrrolidone
- polyvinylpyrrolidone
- polyvinyldyrrolidone
- polyvlnylpyrrolidone
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Polyvinylpyrrolidone? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E1201 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Polyvinylpyrrolidone
- Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported for the amounts used in food.
- Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone banned anywhere?
- Polyvinylpyrrolidone is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Polyvinylpyrrolidone safe for children?
- This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Polyvinylpyrrolidone on a food label?
- Look for E1201, Polyvinylpyrrolidone in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: polyvinylpyrrolldone, dolyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinylpyrrolidone.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.