Comparing E420 - Sorbitol vs E1520 - Propylene Glycol
Overview
Synonyms
Products
Found in 5,351 products
Found in 3,052 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is sorbitol safe for dogs?
Sorbitol isn’t toxic to dogs (unlike xylitol), and small amounts in pet products are generally safe, but larger amounts can cause gas and diarrhea. Avoid giving it in large quantities and monitor for gastrointestinal upset.
Is sorbitol bad for you?
No—sorbitol (E420) is considered safe at typical food levels, but excess intake can cause bloating and a laxative effect. People with IBS or FODMAP sensitivity may react at lower amounts.
Can dogs have sorbitol?
Yes, in small amounts, but it can act as a laxative in dogs if they eat too much. Don’t confuse it with xylitol, which is dangerous to dogs.
Is sorbitol bad for dogs?
It isn’t inherently harmful or toxic, but dogs may develop diarrhea and gas if they consume large amounts. Keep portions small and avoid high-polyol treats.
Is sorbitol toxic to dogs?
No—unlike xylitol, sorbitol (E420) is not considered highly toxic to dogs and is even used in some pet products; however, large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea due to its laxative effect. If a dog consumes a lot or shows persistent vomiting/diarrhea, contact a veterinarian to prevent dehydration.
Is propylene glycol safe?
Yes—E1520 is authorized in the EU and considered GRAS by the FDA when used within limits; the ADI is 25 mg/kg body weight per day. Very high exposures (mainly from medicines), especially in infants or those with kidney/liver impairment, can cause adverse effects.
What is propylene glycol used for?
In foods it functions as a humectant and solvent/carrier for flavors, colors, and emulsifiers, helping retain moisture and distribute ingredients evenly. It’s commonly used in baked goods, icings, confectionery, and flavor extracts.
Does propylene glycol cause cancer?
No—propane-1,2-diol has not shown carcinogenic effects in studies and is not classified as a human carcinogen. Regulatory evaluations report no cancer concern at permitted food-use levels.
Is propylene glycol antifreeze?
Propylene glycol is used in “low-toxicity” antifreeze and cooling systems, whereas the more toxic antifreeze is typically ethylene glycol. Food-grade propylene glycol is the same chemical but produced to high purity and used at much lower amounts in foods.
Is propylene glycol bad for you?
For most people, typical amounts in foods are not harmful and are well below the ADI (25 mg/kg body weight/day). Some individuals may experience irritation or rare allergic reactions, and excessive exposure—mainly from pharmaceuticals—can be problematic.