Propylene glycol

Additive · E 1520

Propylene glycol is a clear liquid that holds moisture and carries flavors or colors in foods. Also called E1520 or 1,2-propanediol, it helps ingredients mix and keeps products moist. Food use involves specified purity standards and limits that vary by country.

Also known as

propylene glycol · 1,2-propanediol · 1,2-propylene glycol · 1,2-dihydroxypropane · 2-hydroxypropanol · propane-1,2-diol · isopropylene glycol · alpha-propylene glycol · methylethylene glycol · methyl glycol · E 1520 · E1520 · INS 1520

Why PRūF tracks it

The review considers conflicting animal kidney findings and modeled child exposure approaching the daily intake value, despite reassuring chronic assessments; vulnerable infants and people with contact sensitivity need separate consideration.

Read the research

Propylene glycol absorbs water and dissolves ingredients, making it useful in flavor preparations and foods that need to retain moisture. It is chemically distinct from ethylene glycol and from propylene glycol alginate. Food rules differ by country and use.

EFSA retained an acceptable daily intake of 25 milligrams per kilogram of body weight in 2018. Its highest refined estimate for children approached that value, while a Japanese market-basket study estimated a much lower average. These estimates use different populations and methods; neither establishes the exposure of every consumer.

Large oral doses can damage red blood cells or kidneys in animals. One newer mouse study reported kidney injury at a dose that earlier studies tolerated, leaving an unresolved conflict. Toxicity from oral medicines in vulnerable infants shows why clearance and dose matter, but does not establish harm from ordinary food intake. Some people with confirmed contact sensitivity may develop eczema after ingestion.

Industry-linked papers proposed a higher daily intake value and assessed beverage uses against it. That proposal has not replaced the current value. Codex has prioritized a new safety evaluation, with supporting data expected in December 2026.

Research reviewed on September 5, 2026 · 12 sources