Is Mono- and Diglycerides Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Mono- and Diglycerides is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called E471. (E471) CAS 67254-73-3.
Other names: monoglycerides, diglycerides, E471, glycerol monostearate
Is Mono- and Diglycerides banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Wonder Bread, Jif Peanut Butter, Cool Whip, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, Breyers Ice Cream |
| CAS number | 67254-73-3 |
What is Mono- and Diglycerides?
Mono- and diglycerides are emulsifiers derived from glycerol and fatty acids, most commonly sourced from soybean, palm, or sunflower oil. They are partial glycerides that exist between monoglycerides (one fatty acid chain) and diglycerides (two chains). They are chemically similar to fats but are not classified as trans fats even when made from partially hydrogenated sources.
Why is Mono- and Diglycerides used in food?
Used to blend water and fat in baked goods, margarine, ice cream, and peanut butter, improving texture and extending shelf life.
Is Mono- and Diglycerides dangerous? Documented risks
Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels. However, mono- and diglycerides can be derived from partially hydrogenated oils, meaning they may carry trace trans fats that do not appear on the trans fat label because they are classified as emulsifiers, not fats. Some researchers have noted this labeling gap. A 2019 study published in Lipids in Health and Disease noted potential concerns with industrial trans fatty acids in these additives. For most consumers, exposure is low, and regulatory agencies including FDA and EFSA consider them safe at permitted levels.
Common US products containing Mono- and Diglycerides
How to avoid Mono- and Diglycerides: safer alternatives
Sunflower lecithin or soy lecithin can serve as plant-based emulsifying alternatives. Beeswax and carnauba wax are used in confectionery.
Frequently asked questions about Mono- and Diglycerides
Are mono- and diglycerides trans fats?
They can contain trace trans fats if derived from partially hydrogenated oils, but they are classified as emulsifiers and do not count toward the trans fat declaration on nutrition labels.
Are mono- and diglycerides banned in the EU?
No. They are approved in the EU as E471 with established usage levels.
Are mono- and diglycerides vegan?
Not always — they may be derived from animal fats. Look for products specifying plant-based or kosher certification.
What products contain mono- and diglycerides?
They are extremely common in commercial bread, peanut butter, margarine, ice cream, and whipped toppings.
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Sources
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1505 — Mono- and diglycerides — FDA
- Re-evaluation of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E 471) as food additives — EFSA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.