Comparing E420 - Sorbitol vs E490 - Propylene glycol

Synonyms
E420
Sorbitol
glucitol
E490
Propylene glycol
1‚2-propanediol
propane-1‚2-diol
1‚2-dihydroxypropane
α-propylene glycol
methyl ethyl glycol
methylethylene glycol
Propan-1‚2-diol
Products

Found in 5,351 products

Found in 0 products

Search rank & volume
#7037.1K / mo🇺🇸U.S.
#4068.1K / mo🇺🇸U.S.
Awareness score

×1.01
normal

Awareness data is not available.

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Interest over time for 9 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions
  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  1. Is propylene glycol safe?

    Yes—when used within regulatory limits in foods, propylene glycol is considered safe; the FDA classifies it as GRAS and EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 25 mg/kg body weight per day.

  2. What is propylene glycol used for?

    In foods it acts as a solvent and carrier for flavors and colors, a humectant to retain moisture, and sometimes a stabilizer; it’s also used as a solvent in medicines and cosmetics.

  3. Does propylene glycol cause cancer?

    No—major health agencies do not classify propylene glycol as carcinogenic, and studies have not linked typical exposures to cancer.

  4. Is propylene glycol antifreeze?

    Yes, it’s used as a less‑toxic antifreeze/heat‑transfer fluid (e.g., RV or food‑industry systems), which is separate from its low‑level use in foods.

  5. Is propylene glycol bad for you?

    At normal food levels it isn’t considered harmful; very high intakes can cause irritation or metabolic effects, and people with kidney or liver disease and infants may be more sensitive.