Ingredient · Updated
Vegetable Glycerin
Found in 23 productsSee all
Gutology Mineral Toothpaste Wild Mint with Oral Probiotics 
Shea Radiance Whipped Shea Butter with Colloidal Oatmeal Unscented 
Organic Jaguar Natural Conditioner 
Organic Jaguar Natural Shampoo 
Optimize Vitaminz D3, K2, A, E Liquid Drops 
Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum 
Sports Research Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil - 150 Softgels 
up&up Baby Bath Wash and Shampoo - Fragrance Free What is Vegetable Glycerin?
Vegetable glycerin is a clear, odorless liquid derived from plant oils, typically palm, soy, or coconut oils. It is produced through a process called hydrolysis, where oils are subjected to high pressure and temperature, splitting them into crude glycerol and fatty acids.
It is commonly used in both food and personal care products as a humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture. In the food industry, it's often found in low-fat foods and as a sweetener substitute, providing sweetness while being lower in calories than sucrose. Health evidence around vegetable glycerin generally suggests it is safe for consumption, with most studies pointing to minimal adverse effects when used within standard dietary limits.
When you see vegetable glycerin on a label, it is likely serving as a moisturizing agent or a sweetness-enhancing additive. It is accepted in a wide range of dietary practices, including vegan and vegetarian diets, due to its plant-based origin.
Commonly found in: Protein bars, Body lotions, Toothpastes, Hair care products, Baby skin care
Benefits
- Used as a humectant, it can help keep foods and cosmetics moist.
Vegetable glycerin is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses.
Studies on glycerin show it is generally safe at standard consumption levels; however, high doses might lead to digestive upset.
Vegetable glycerin is derived from plants and is considered suitable for vegans.
Sources: Glycerin Information
Scout's take
Vegetable glycerin is used as a humectant to retain moisture in the product. It is derived from plant oils and is generally considered safe. It has no significant nutritional benefits but helps maintain texture.
The case against
Excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
from the analysis of Nick's Crispy Cookie Protein Bars · echoed in 5 other analysesMay cause digestive discomfort in some individuals when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Joyride Sour Soda Bottle Gummy CandyThere are no significant risks, though overuse can lead to a sticky feeling.
from the analysis of Mad Hippie Vitamin C SerumThe case for
Helps retain moisture in foods, improving texture and shelf life.
from the analysis of Joyride Sour Soda Bottle Gummy Candy · echoed in 2 other analysesHelps maintain moisture and texture in food products.
from the analysis of Aloha Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Plant-Based Protein Bars - Protein · echoed in 2 other analysesHelps retain moisture and improve texture in food products.
from the analysis of Nick's Crispy Cookie Protein Bars · echoed in 1 other analysisHelps maintain moisture and texture in food products without significantly impacting blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of simplyFUEL Cinnamon Roll Protein BallsProvides moisture retention and sweetness with a low glycemic impact.
from the analysis of Nature Valley Sweet & Salty Dark Chocolate-Peanut & Almond Granola BarsMore from Scout's analyses
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
from the analysis of Gutology Mineral Toothpaste Wild Mint with Oral ProbioticsVegetable glycerin is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant and sweetener in foods. It is generally recognized as safe and has a low glycemic index. It provides moisture retention but does not offer significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Kellog Rice Krispies Treats Homestyle BarsVegetable glycerin is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant to retain moisture in foods. It is derived from plant oils and is generally recognized as safe. It has a low glycemic index, making it a suitable sweetener for diabetics.
from the analysis of Tate's Bake Shop Soft Baked Double Chocolate Chip CookiesAll 23 products with Vegetable Glycerin
Where Vegetable Glycerin shows up
- Protein Bars 8 products
- Toothpaste 2 products
- Hair Care 2 products
- Candy 2 products
- Body Lotion 1 product
- Multivitamins 1 product
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