Is Propylene Glycol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Propylene Glycol is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called PG. (E1520)
Other names: PG, E1520, 1,2-propanediol
Is Propylene Glycol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | — |
| Where it shows up | Artificial flavors (as solvent), Some salad dressings, Certain baked goods and icings, Some food colorings (as vehicle), Various cosmetics and skincare products, Electronic cigarette liquids (not food) |
What is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol is a synthetic organic compound used as a humectant, solvent, and emulsifier in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications. It is produced from propylene oxide (derived from petroleum). Its chemical formula is C3H8O2.
Why is Propylene Glycol used in food?
Propylene glycol maintains moisture in food (humectant), acts as a solvent for food flavors and coloring, and preserves food texture. Used in artificial flavorings, salad dressings, baked goods, packaged icings, and as a vehicle for food dyes. In cosmetics, it is used as a moisturizer and solvent.
Is Propylene Glycol dangerous? Documented risks
Propylene glycol is generally considered safe by the FDA and is metabolized by the liver to lactic acid and pyruvate (normal metabolites). However, at high doses — particularly from intravenous pharmaceutical formulations — propylene glycol can accumulate and cause lactic acidosis, kidney toxicity, and CNS effects. These effects are seen in critically ill patients receiving high-dose PG-containing intravenous medications, not from food consumption. In children and people with impaired liver or kidney function, PG accumulation may occur at lower doses than in healthy adults. Animal studies have found reproductive and developmental effects at high doses. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation found no concerns at typical food use levels but noted the EU limits PG use as a direct food additive, using it only as a carrier solvent for permitted additives.
Common US products containing Propylene Glycol
- High Protein Baked Bar Chocolate Peanut ButterRobert Irvine's Fit Crunch
- Dove Intense Repair ConditionerDove
- Clairol Natural Instincts Semi-Permanent Hair ColorClairol
- L'Oréal Paris Feria Permanent Hair ColorL'Oréal
- Axe Gold Deodorant Body SprayAxe
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin CleanserCetaphil
- Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily CleanserNeutrogena
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte+Poreless FoundationMaybelline
How to avoid Propylene Glycol: safer alternatives
Vegetable glycerin (glycerol) is a natural alternative to propylene glycol as a humectant and solvent. Water, alcohol, and plant-based solvents can substitute in many applications. Natural flavor carriers and essential oils replace PG in flavoring applications.
Frequently asked questions about Propylene Glycol
Is propylene glycol safe in food?
FDA considers PG safe at food use levels (GRAS). EFSA allows it only as a carrier solvent at low levels in the EU, restricting direct food additive use. At food use quantities, PG is metabolized normally. Health concerns arise at high doses in medical contexts, not typical food consumption.
Is propylene glycol natural?
No. Propylene glycol is a synthetic organic compound produced from petroleum-derived propylene oxide. It is not naturally derived. Vegetable glycerin (glycerol) is a natural alternative.
Is propylene glycol in antifreeze?
Yes. Propylene glycol is used in automotive antifreeze (as a less toxic alternative to ethylene glycol antifreeze), de-icing fluids, and HVAC systems. This industrial use is chemically identical to the food-grade version but uses different purity standards. The dual use sometimes alarms consumers, though the food-grade version is manufactured and purified to different standards.
What foods contain propylene glycol?
Artificial flavors (as solvent), some salad dressings, certain baked goods and icings, some food coloring vehicles. Check ingredient labels for 'propylene glycol' or 'E1520.'
Is propylene glycol banned in Europe?
Not banned but significantly restricted. The EU allows PG only as a carrier solvent for specific food additives at limited levels, not as a direct food additive. This means EU food products have substantially less PG than equivalent US products.
Is propylene glycol the same as ethylene glycol?
No. Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) and ethylene glycol (1,2-ethanediol) are different compounds. Ethylene glycol is highly toxic and is used in automotive coolant. Propylene glycol is less toxic and used in food-grade applications. The two should not be confused.
Is propylene glycol in e-cigarettes?
Yes. Propylene glycol is a major component of e-cigarette and vaping liquids, used as a carrier for nicotine and flavors. Inhalation of vaporized propylene glycol has different safety considerations than oral consumption in food.
How do I avoid propylene glycol?
Check ingredient labels for 'propylene glycol' or 'E1520.' Choose certified organic products, which avoid PG as a direct additive. Use vegetable glycerin-based cosmetics and personal care products. Choose products with natural flavor carriers.
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Sources
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/10/2026.