Tag: Glycerin vs glycerol

Though often used interchangeably, the term glycerol refers to the pure chemical compound, while glycerin is a commercial-grade product. Understanding the distinction is vital, especially when considering the difference between vegetable glycerin and glycerol for specific applications in food, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals.

Over two centuries ago, in 1779, a Swedish chemist accidentally discovered the sweet, viscous liquid we now know as glycerin. Another name for vegetable glycerin is glycerol, though the terms are often used interchangeably in commercial and everyday contexts.