Tag: Propylene glycol

Despite persistent rumors, the toxic substance ethylene glycol is not used in ice cream or any other food product. This common misunderstanding stems from confusion with a related, but safe, food additive called propylene glycol.

According to reputable halal certification bodies, synthetically derived propylene glycol is generally considered halal. This guide delves into the ingredient's origin and manufacturing, explaining why the common food additive propylene glycol is halal, provided it does not contain prohibited animal by-products or intoxicants during production.

According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid that absorbs water. The simple answer to 'Is propylene glycol an animal product?' is no, but its origin can be either fossil fuel-based or plant-based, which is an important distinction for consumers following a vegan or natural products lifestyle.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), propylene glycol is classified as 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS) for use in food. However, the question of 'Is propylene glycol a vegan food?' is more nuanced, depending on its specific source and final chemical form.

Propylene glycol (E1520) has an exceptionally low toxicity, especially compared to the related, highly poisonous ethylene glycol. The primary function of propylene glycol E1520 is to act as a multipurpose chemical in various industries, serving roles as a humectant, solvent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in products from food to cosmetics.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified food-grade propylene glycol as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) for use as a direct food additive under specific conditions. This synthetic substance is regulated by different food codes worldwide, impacting how it appears on product labels.

In the European Union, propylene glycol is designated by the additive number E1520 on food labels. This synthetic liquid substance, also known as 1,2-propanediol, is used in a vast number of processed foods, where it can appear under a variety of names depending on its function.

According to most manufacturers and health experts, the short answer to whether vapes have fat in them is a definitive no. This common misconception stems from misunderstandings about the ingredients in e-liquids and how the body processes them. While some ingredients, like vegetable glycerin, are derived from vegetable oils, they are not a source of dietary fat in their final form or when vaporized.

While the primary ingredients in e-liquids—propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG)—do have a caloric value when ingested, the calories in vapes are almost entirely insignificant due to the process of inhalation. This reality counters the common myth that vaping can significantly impact your daily caloric intake or lead to weight gain.

Despite being classified as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by the FDA, many people still ask, "Why is propylene glycol in food bad for you?". We explore the genuine health considerations versus common misinformation surrounding this food additive.