Is Glycerol Safe? E422 Explained
Glycerol is E422 (Glycerol) — glycerol — a humectant that keeps food moist; can be plant or animal-derived, making it uncertain for vegans.
What is Glycerol?
E422 is Glycerol, a food additive classified as a humectant that retain moisture and prevent drying out. Glycerol — a humectant that keeps food moist; can be plant or animal-derived, making it uncertain for vegans. You'll find it in baked goods, confectionery, dried fruits and many other packaged foods. Glycerol is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E422 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Is Glycerol bad for you?
EFSA has reviewed E422 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Glycerol to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Glycerol — status Safe.
Foods containing Glycerol
- baked goods
- confectionery
- dried fruits
- tobacco products
- cosmetics
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Related to Glycerol
Products relevant to Glycerol and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
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Whole Food Cooking Guide
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Glycerol FAQs
Is Glycerol bad for you?
EFSA has reviewed E422 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Glycerol to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is Glycerol vegan?
E422 (Glycerol) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source used by the manufacturer.
Is Glycerol halal?
E422 (Glycerol) is MASHBOOH — its halal status is doubtful and depends on the source used.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA