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Appears Safe

Appears safe based on current evidence

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Appears Safe
Glycerol
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Glycerol

E422 Humectant Appears Safe 1 min read

At a Glance

Safety Rating
Appears Safe
Category
Humectant
E-Number
E422
Banned Somewhere?
No
Controversy Level
Low

Quick Answer

Glycerol (E422) is rated "Appears Safe" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).

On This Page

What is Glycerol?

Moisture retainer

Also known as: glycerol, glycerin, glycerine

Regulatory Status by Country

🇺🇸 US

Approved (GRAS)
Agency: FDA

US name: Glycerol/Glycerin

GRAS. Humectant

🇪🇺 EU

Approved
Agency: EFSA

Moisture retainer

🇬🇧 UK

Same as EU pre-Brexit
Agency: FSA

UK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications

🇯🇵 Japan

Check MHLW database
Agency: MHLW

🇨🇦 CA

Approved
Agency: Health Canada

Generally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.

🇦🇺 AU/NZ

Approved
Agency: FSANZ

Generally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.

🇮🇳 India

Approved
Agency: FSSAI

Widely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.

🇰🇷 KR

Check MFDS
Agency: MFDS

Verify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.

🇧🇷 Brazil

Approved
Agency: ANVISA

Generally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.

🇨🇳 China

Approved
Agency: GB 2760

Permitted under GB 2760 national standard.

Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.

Expert Analysis

Glycerol is classified as a humectant in the food additive regulatory framework. Current scientific evidence supports its safety when consumed within established limits. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.

Is Glycerol safe?

Glycerol has a safety rating of "Appears Safe". Appears safe based on current evidence

Is Glycerol vegan?

Glycerol is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.

Is Glycerol banned in Europe?

No, Glycerol is Approved in the EU.

What is Glycerol made from?

Moisture retainer

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Glycerol safe?
Glycerol has a safety rating of "Appears Safe" based on regulatory data from 10 countries including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more. Appears safe based on current evidence Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Is Glycerol banned in any country?
Glycerol is currently approved in major markets including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more, though specific regulations and permitted uses may vary between countries.
What is Glycerol used for?
Glycerol is a food additive in the "Humectant" category. Moisture retainer

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