Ingredient Information

Function

Propylene glycol monoester is an emulsifier. It is used in cakes, ice creams, pastries, cookies, dips, jams, spreads and many other processed food items.
It also helps prolong the shelf life of baked goods.

Other Use and Industries

Propylene glycol monoester is used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. These industries utilize it for its various features, depending on specific product requirements. It is used in creams, lotions, deodorants, shampoos, skin care products, sanitizers, pills, injection fluids, therapy oils and many more products. It is also used to manufacture plastics, kitchenware, paints and adhesives.

Health Effects

Propylene glycol monoesters are hydrolyzed to fatty acids and propylene glycol, which are normally present in the human body and are easily metabolized. Propylene glycol monoesters can cause mild irritation of the eyes or skin, similar to an allergy, on prolonged contact. It is non-toxic in small doses. It is high in cholesterol.

In lethal or near lethal doses, 6 gm per kg or mor), propylene glycol mono ester of stearic acid is known to cause kidney damage in several species. No specific data or information on harmful effects is available, however it is advisable to avoid consumption in large doses.

Origins

Propylene glycol monoesters are created by the esterification or trans-esterification of the fatty acid with one hydroxyl group.