Propylene glycol is commonly used as an additive to aid in the processing of foods and improve their texture, flavor, appearance and shelf life.

In foods, propylene glycol may be used in the following ways :

• Anti-caking agent: It helps prevent food components from sticking to one another and forming clumps, such as in dried soups or grated cheese.
• Antioxidant: It extends the shelf life of foods by protecting them against deterioration caused by oxygen.
• Carrier: It dissolves other food additives or nutrients to be used in processing, such as colors, flavors or antioxidants.
• Dough strengthener: It modifies the starches and gluten in dough to make it more stable.
• Emulsifier: It prevents food ingredients from separating, such as oil and vinegar in salad dressing.
• Moisture preserver: It helps foods maintain a stable level of moisture and stops them from drying out. Examples include marshmallows, coconut flakes and nuts.
• Processing aid: It is used to enhance the appeal or the use of a food, for example, to make a liquid clearer.
• Stabilizer and thickener: It can be used to hold food components together or thicken them during and after processing.
• Texturizer: It can change the appearance or mouthfeel of a food.

Propylene glycol is commonly found in many packaged foods, such as drink mixes, dressings, dried soups, cake mix, soft drinks, popcorn, food coloring, fast foods, bread and dairy products. It is also used in injectable medications, like lorazepam, and in some creams and ointments that are applied to the skin, such as corticosteroids.

PHARMACEUTICAL & FOOD GRADE