What is E422?
E422 is Glycerol (Glycerine) — a sweet-tasting liquid that keeps food moist — usually plant-derived, but can come from animal fat.
What is E422 (Glycerol)?
E422 is the E-number for glycerol, one of the humectants group of food additives (E400–E1520). Additives in this group keep foods moist and stop them drying out. Made from plant oils (including palm), synthetically, or from animal fats. Glycerol can be made from plant oils (commonly palm or coconut), synthesised from petroleum, or derived from animal fats — so vegans and halal consumers need to check the source with the manufacturer. Like every E-number, E422 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E422 in detail below.
Where is E422 found?
E422 is typically used in cakes, sweets, dried fruit, chewing gum and soft baked goods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E422) or by its full name, glycerol. Common foods that may contain E422 include:
- Cake icing and fondant
- Sweets
- Energy gels
- Liqueurs
- E-liquids and medicines
Full guide: foods containing E422 and how to spot it on labels →
E422 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Glycerine safe? · Is Glycerol safe?
Is E422 safe?
E422 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E422.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E422 vegan?
E422 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from plant oils (including palm), synthetically, or from animal fats, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E422 →Is E422 halal?
E422 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from plant oils (including palm), synthetically, or from animal fats. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E422 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E422 in food?
E422 is Glycerol (Glycerine) — a sweet-tasting liquid that keeps food moist — usually plant-derived, but can come from animal fat.
Is E422 safe to eat?
Yes. E422 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E422 vegan?
E422 is uncertain for vegans — it is made from plant oils (including palm), synthetically, or from animal fats, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E422 halal?
E422 is mashbooh (doubtful) — made from plant oils (including palm), synthetically, or from animal fats. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).