E422 - Glycerol

Author: Leticia Celentano Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: January 27, 2026

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristics: Glycerol is a stabilizer that is used to maintain and increase the viscosity and consistency of food products. It is used as an emulsifier, with the help of which we are

Characteristic

Glycerol is a stabilizer that is used to maintain and increase the viscosity and consistency of foods. It is used as an emulsifier, which is used to mix various mixtures that cannot be combined under other conditions.

Glycerol has the structure of a thick colorless liquid, the taste is sweet, the solubility in water is good. The substance is obtained by hydrolysis of oils and fats.

Use

The additive is used in confectionery, but is most widely used in the manufacture of cosmetics and soaps. It is believed to work well on human skin (softens and nourishes it), but many experts deny its beneficial effects. In small amounts, the substance can actually prevent the skin from drying out, but pure glycerin is characterized by a strong drying effect.

E 422 is used as a laxative and diuretic, thanks to which it is widely used in cryobiology.

Main areas of application:

in the production of explosives and mixtures;
in the processing of leather goods;
when making paper;
in the production of antifreeze;
in the confectionery industry;
in the preparation of alcoholic beverages.

Impact on humans

The food supplement E 422 has dehydrating properties due to increased reabsorption of water and increased plasma pressure, which leads to the release of large amounts of fluid.

The supplement is strictly prohibited for use by people with kidney disease and impaired circulation. Increased intake of the substance can lead to severe dehydration. Despite its adverse effects on humans, E 421 is widely used in pharmacology.

In food production it is allowed in limited quantities.

E422 - Glycerol

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic

Use

Impact on humans

Related Articles