Polyethylene glycol
Score impact
0.00
points/product
Description
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a synthetic water-soluble polymer composed of repeating ethylene oxide units. Its origin is industrial, derived from petroleum. It is obtained by ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide in the presence of an alkaline catalyst, producing chains of different lengths (molecular weights). Physicochemical properties vary depending on molecular weight: low molecular weight PEGs are viscous liquids, while high molecular weight PEGs are waxy solids. They are hygroscopic, thermally stable, and non-toxic under normal conditions.
In the food industry, E1521 functions as a coating agent (to prevent moisture loss and improve appearance), antifoaming agent (to reduce foam formation in manufacturing processes), and plasticizer in food coatings. Its use as a food additive was approved in the European Union after evaluations by EFSA, which established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 10 mg/kg body weight. WHO has also evaluated it, concluding that it is safe at authorized use levels.
The food safety of E1521 is supported by numerous toxicological studies showing low oral absorption and almost complete fecal excretion. On labeling, it must appear as 'polyethylene glycol' or its E number. Although widely used in medicines and cosmetics, its use in food is more restricted. No significant adverse effects in humans have been reported at permitted doses. EFSA has recently reviewed its safety, confirming the existing ADI.
In summary, E1521 is a safe and effective additive for the technological functions it performs.
E1521 is mainly used as a coating agent on fruits and vegetables to delay water loss and improve shine, and as an antifoaming agent in beverage production and other processes. It is also used as a plasticizer in edible coatings for confectionery products and as an excipient in food supplements.
In the Spanish market, it can be found in waxed fruits (such as apples and citrus), in some candies and chewing gums, and in carbonated beverages where it is used to control foam. Authorized limits according to Regulation EC 1333/2008 vary: for fruit coating, the maximum amount is 10 mg/kg of product; as an antifoaming agent in beverages, up to 10 mg/L; in food supplements, up to 1000 mg/kg. Comparatively, the FDA allows its use in food with similar restrictions, while in Japan it is approved for certain uses.
EFSA has established that estimated exposure levels are below the ADI, ensuring its safety.
Toxicological studies indicate that polyethylene glycol has low acute and chronic toxicity. In humans, ingestion of large amounts (more than 10 g/kg) may cause laxative effects due to its osmotic action, but at doses present in foods no adverse effects are expected.
EFSA and WHO conclude that there is no evidence of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, or reproductive toxicity. Sensitive populations such as people with chronic kidney disease may have a higher risk of accumulation, but dietary exposure levels are very low. No significant interactions with medications have been documented, although it may reduce the absorption of some drugs if ingested simultaneously.
In conclusion, E1521 is considered safe under authorized conditions of use.
- PEG
- Macrogol
- Polyethylene oxide
- Polyoxyethylene
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