Propylene glycol
Learn what Propylene glycol (E1520) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Propylene glycol?
Food additive E 1520, Propylene Glycol (PG), is commonly used as a food additive or ingredient in many cosmetic and hygiene products.
Why is Propylene glycol added to food?
Propylene glycol (E1520) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Cake essences.
Permitted quantity: Based on toxicity data, the ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) is 25 mg/kg body weight per day.
Is Propylene glycol safe?
Moderate concern
After consuming a food containing propylene glycol, approximately 45% of it will be eliminated through the kidneys, unchanged. The rest is broken down in the body into lactic acid. When consumed in very large quantities, the accumulation of lactic acid can lead to acidosis and renal failure. Acidosis occurs when the body cannot eliminate lactic acid quickly, and it accumulates in the blood.
Is Propylene glycol banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Propylene glycol okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Propylene glycol
- Cake essences
How to spot Propylene glycol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E1520
- Propylene glycol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- propylene glycol
- prodylene glycol
- dropylene glycol
- propylene glyeol
- propylene qlycol
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive or hypersensitive to propylene glycol. • Avoid large quantities of consumption by people with kidney or liver conditions. • Not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding without medical advice. • May cause skin or eye irritation in case of direct contact.
Also known as
- propylene glycol
- prodylene glycol
- dropylene glycol
- propylene glyeol
- propylene qlycol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Propylene glycol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E1520 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Propylene glycol
- Is Propylene glycol safe to eat?
- After consuming a food containing propylene glycol, approximately 45% of it will be eliminated through the kidneys, unchanged. The rest is broken down in the body into lactic acid. When consumed in very large quantities, the accumulation of lactic acid can lead to acidosis and renal failure. Acidosis occurs when the body cannot eliminate lactic acid quickly, and it accumulates in the blood.
- Is Propylene glycol banned anywhere?
- Propylene glycol is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Propylene glycol safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Propylene glycol on a food label?
- Look for E1520, Propylene glycol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: propylene glycol, prodylene glycol, dropylene glycol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.