Is Mono- and Diglycerides Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Mono- and Diglycerides is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Mono- and Diglycerides on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Wonder Bread, Jif Peanut Butter, Cool Whip.
TL;DR: Mono- and Diglycerides is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Mono- and Diglycerides: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Wonder Bread, Jif Peanut Butter, Cool Whip, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, Breyers Ice Cream |
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.
What regulators have flagged about Mono- and Diglycerides
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Mono- and Diglycerides with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Mono- and Diglycerides →
Audited products that don't contain Mono- and Diglycerides.
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Mono- and Diglycerides and pregnancy: common questions
Is Mono- and Diglycerides banned anywhere?
Mono- and Diglycerides is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid Mono- and Diglycerides during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Mono- and Diglycerides?
Commonly found in Wonder Bread, Jif Peanut Butter, Cool Whip, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, Breyers Ice Cream. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Mono- and Diglycerides.
What can I use instead of Mono- and Diglycerides?
Sunflower lecithin or soy lecithin can serve as plant-based emulsifying alternatives. Beeswax and carnauba wax are used in confectionery. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Mono- and Diglycerides or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
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.