Triclosan vs Propylene Glycol: which is worse?
Quick answer: Triclosan carries the heavier risk profile. Triclosan is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Propylene Glycol is — in the EU and — in the US.
| Property | Triclosan | Propylene Glycol |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | — |
| US status | Allowed | — |
| Risk level | high | — |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | European Union | European Union (not permitted as a direct food additive in most food applications; only permitted as a carrier solvent for specific additives at low levels) |
| Category | endocrine disruptor | additive |
| Where it hides | antibacterial soap, toothpaste, deodorant | — |
What is Triclosan?
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent.
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.
Documented risks
Triclosan: An endocrine disruptor linked to antibiotic resistance. Restricted in the EU and banned in US over-the-counter antibacterial soaps, but still allowed in some products.
Propylene Glycol: 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.
Scan a barcode and we'll flag both Triclosan and Propylene Glycol (plus 200+ other ingredients banned overseas).
Scan free →