Propylene Glycol — Hidden Processing Agent — Is It Vegan?
Also known as: 1,2-propanediol, E1520, PG
Vegan
No animals or animal-derived substances are involved in producing this agent.
Not required on labels
Listed as E1520 or 'propylene glycol' when used as a direct food additive.
Source
Produced synthetically from propylene oxide (a petroleum derivative) or from bio-based glycerol. No animal products are used.
Used In
Food flavouring carrier (dissolves flavour compounds), moistening agent in some tobacco products, humectant in baked goods, food colouring carrier, some cosmetic formulations, antifreeze.
How to Avoid
No need to avoid from a vegan perspective — propylene glycol is vegan. Concerns about this ingredient relate to health (excessive doses, rare sensitivity) not animal ethics.
Editorial Notes
Propylene glycol is not to be confused with ethylene glycol (the common automotive antifreeze, which is toxic). Propylene glycol is approved as a food additive and is GRAS in the USA. It is used in some food flavours as a carrier solvent. In e-cigarette liquids, PG is one of the two base liquids (with vegetable glycerin).