Propylene Glycol — Hidden Processing Agent — Is It Vegan?

Vegan status: Vegan

Also known as: 1,2-propanediol, E1520, PG

Source

Produced synthetically from propylene oxide (a petroleum derivative) or from bio-based glycerol. No animal products are used.

Used in

Food flavouring carrier (dissolves flavour compounds), moistening agent in some tobacco products, humectant in baked goods, food colouring carrier, some cosmetic formulations, antifreeze.

Appears on label: No. Listed as E1520 or 'propylene glycol' when used as a direct food additive.

How to avoid

No need to avoid from a vegan perspective — propylene glycol is vegan. Concerns about this ingredient relate to health (excessive doses, rare sensitivity) not animal ethics.

Notes

Propylene glycol is not to be confused with ethylene glycol (the common automotive antifreeze, which is toxic). Propylene glycol is approved as a food additive and is GRAS in the USA. It is used in some food flavours as a carrier solvent. In e-cigarette liquids, PG is one of the two base liquids (with vegetable glycerin).