This makes it very useful as a food additive, so it can be found in a wide variety of processed foods and drinks (2). I did mention earlier that propylene glycol is not considered bioaccumulative (builds up over time in the bloodstream). Use Antiviral Herbs to Boost Immune System and Fight Viruses. Warnings Keep out of reach of children. Learn what research has found about this controversial ingredient. Acidosis occurs when the body cannot get rid of the acid fast enough. If exposed to the eyes and facial area, propylene glycol can also be an irritant and cause mild conjunctivitis. Here's a look at the evidence on…. While the conditions under which these studies occurred are unlikely to be repeated in humans, this information is still relevant. Additionally, it is used in industrial products like paint, antifreeze, artificial smoke and e-cigarettes (2, 6). (3) It (correctly) designates the known issues with propylene glycol to be in the “allergies and immunotoxicity” category, with no hazard related to cancer or reproductive processes. However, another study demonstrated that doses of up to 15.4 mg per pound (34 mg/kg) of propylene glycol over 24 hours were tolerated by young babies (24). However, toxicity is very rare. It is a colorless, odorless, slightly syrupy liquid that is a bit thicker than water. This drug is often administered to patients with extensive burns as sedation during the healing process or to psychiatric patients. Again, this information reflects available research. Symptoms include a slower rate of breathing, decreased heart rate and loss of consciousness (14). The main sign of toxicity is central nervous system depression. Propylene glycol or 1,2-dihydroxypropane or 1,2-propanediol, is a clear, colourless, viscous, practically odourless liquid with a density of 1.038 g/cm³ at 20°C and a molecular weight of 76.095. If you’re a fan of mustard greens, cabbage and spinach, you’ll probably ... Nobody likes to hear that an ingredient in antifreeze — propylene glycol — is also found in food. Well, according to the US Food and Drug Administration, that's what certain best-selling laxatives can do to you. Our team aims to be not only thorough with its research, but also objective and unbiased. The Surprising Truth, The Top 7 Vitamin and Supplement Trends of 2021. e-cigarettes, the organic alternative — though I recommend quitting smoking entirely, of course. In the US, it can be used as a direct and indirect food additive. and symptoms have been commonly associated with propylene glycol exposure, mostly in part due to a few case studies that have caused alarming concern. There are a great deal of “clean” household products available, both commercially or of the DIY variety, and they will help you to greatly reduce your chemical exposure. So, although propylene glycol may not be as terrifying as some people claim, it does have enough red flags to cause me to recommend avoiding it. In this case, the child received 4.1 grams per pound (9 g/kg) of propylene glycol, which is a very high dose. Some websites state it is safe, while others claim it causes heart attacks, kidney and liver failure and brain problems. Allergy alert. (26) Anorectal drug products - (i) Anticholinergic drug products. Is Liposomal Vitamin C Really More Absorbable than Other Supplements? Maltodextrin is one of those widely used but little-understood food additives. You can also use raw butter instead of margarine for an immediate health booster to your cooking. One study of 38 sensitive people given propylene glycol by mouth found that 15 of them developed a rash within 3 to 16 hours (31). 30 Gluten-Free Recipes & detox juicing guide. Some fast-food chains use as many as 15 ingredients in something as simple as a french fry. Fowler JF Jr. (, On an interesting, positive note, propylene glycol might actually have the ability to. In rats, some scientists have found enlarged cells in the respiratory tract, as well as some nasal hemorrhaging. The real truth about propylene glycol is a bit more complicated (like most things!). For example, in one study, 19% of critical patients being treated with the drug lorazepam were observed to have signs of propylene glycol toxicity (19). It may cause a variety of mild to moderate side effects in humans. , contributing to taste and “smoothness” of the smoke. It may cause a variety of mild to moderate side effects in humans. Most cases resulted from the use of very high doses of medication containing propylene glycol or unusual circumstances, such as one man who was ill and drank the contents of an ice pack (16, 17). It is found in many different food products and can be identified by checking the ingredients list. It is defined by Codex Alimentarius, the international food standards organisation of the World Health Organization (WHO) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN). For contact dermatitis, avoid products containing it that come into contact with the skin. Many people became scared of the association between antifreeze and food, although propylene glycol simply lowers the freezing point of water (just like salt) and was only introduced into antifreeze products to replace a more dangerous chemical. Allergens are used to test a patient for hypersensitivity to specific substances (see skin test). Excess creatinine is a sign that the kidney is unable to process compounds at a normal rate. In another case, a 15-month-old child was given oral doses of vitamin C dissolved in propylene glycol. Propylenglykol, som også kaldes 1,2-propandiol eller propan-1,2-diol, er et organisk stof (en diol eller dobbeltalkohol) med bruttoformlen C 3 H 8 O 2 eller HO-CH 2-CHOH-CH 3.Det er en klar, farveløs og næsten lugtløs væske med en svag, sødlig smag. While there are cases of toxicity from very high doses of medication, it is overall considered a very low-toxicity substance. It doesn’t add much, if any, flavor to foods, which is another reason why it’s commonly used in packaged food product, medications and personal-care goods such as deodorant and perfume.. Propylene Glycol Uses. So how are you supposed to know what it is and whether it's harmful to…, The COVID-19 pandemic has led more people than ever toward vitamins and supplements to boost their health. Most of the time, propylene glycol does not accumulate in your body, as it breaks down within 48 hours of ingestion or exposure. People who already have skin conditions or sensitive skin are at particular risk of contact allergy to this additive (6). However, these are not the same substance. Should You Remove Carrageenan from Your Diet? There is no evidence that dietary amounts are cause for concern. As you will read throughout these pages, I have suffered for years with a mysterious Click through this slideshow from WebMD to find out more. In food, the levels are considered pharmaceutical-grade. 1,2 It is a multifunctional excipient that is used in many products as a solvent, vehicle, humectant, or emulsifier. Cellulose gum is used as a thickening agent in many food products. A synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water, propylene glycol classified by the chemical formula C, Propylene glycol is found in thousands of cosmetic products as well as a large number of, products. Propylene glycol is also found in oral treatments as well as many foods. Most food allergies are caused by just 8 foods. In addition, propylene glycol can cause irritant contact dermatitis. All rights reserved. For people with allergic dermatitis, it is best to avoid all sources of propylene glycol. Here's what you need to know. At the levels that people typically consume or are exposed to it, propylene glycol is safe and non-toxic. Most of the time, propylene glycol does not accumulate in your body, as it breaks down within 48 hours of ingestion or exposure. Systemic dermatitis has been reported after eating foods and taking medications and intravenous drugs that contain propylene glycol (33, 34, 35). It’s unlikely that you will experience any major adverse reactions to propylene glycol through normal exposure from food or cosmetics. (, If exposed to the eyes and facial area, propylene glycol can also be an irritant and cause mild, Propylene glycol is used in many IV medications, including, , an anxiety-reducing and seizure treatment medication. Infants are at particular risk. A 2007 study from the University of Connecticut assessed the treatment of propylene glycol toxicity and also noted it can be dangerous for those with liver problems. Rare cases suggest severe allergy to propylene glycol that could eventually (but unlikely) lead to death. Rare cases suggest severe allergy to propylene glycol that could eventually (but unlikely) lead to death. Gluten Free Society recognizes that corn gluten is a harmful component for the gluten sensitive. recipe. Prospective mothers are usually very cautious during and after pregnancy to ensure their children’s health. Because of its sweet taste, ethylene glycol in antifreeze has been responsible for the deaths of many household pets who would lap it up when it collected on the ground. In fact, between 0.8 and 3.5% of people are estimated to have a skin allergy to propylene glycol (32). Keep in mind that most of the foods containing propylene glycol are highly processed junk foods. Since ingredients do not have to appear on cosmetic products, you should purchase only from companies who list all ingredients on their packaging and don’t include propylene glycol on that list. There are enough red flags to avoid PG all together in order to protect your general health, hormone balance, and overall chemical exposure. But research shows it can cause a few health concerns, including: Rashes and allergic reactions. A great number of cosmetics include propylene glycol, but in the U.S., Frozen desserts (ice cream, frozen yogurt, etc. Propylene glycol is “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (8). This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. Over 25% of allergy medicines contain propylene glycol, azo dyes, and sorbitans. After discontinuing the drug that poisoned her body, her condition stabilized for a period of time, but she later died after her condition deteriorated again. When you purchase food in a box, there’s a handy list on the side to show you what you plan to put in your body. So, although propylene glycol may not be as terrifying as some people claim, it does have enough red flags to cause me to recommend avoiding it. Additionally, it can dissolve some substances better than water and is also good at retaining moisture. If you suffer from kidney or liver issues that may affect your body’s ability to process organic compounds, or are chronically ill, I highly recommend limiting your exposure to this compound as much as possible, as for these individuals propylene glycol can act like a poison. While propylene glycol is generally considered safe, you may still choose to avoid it if you are allergic or you simply want to reduce your intake. Author Information . In recent years, there has been much frustration and confusion about the chemical compound known as propylene glycol. For instance, a puppy needs a different diet than a senior dog, and a small breed might not thrive on the same food … It has not been found to cause cancer, damage genes or interfere with fertility or reproduction. They take up to three times as long to remove propylene glycol from their bodies and may be particularly sensitive to the effects on the central nervous system (9, 20, 21). There are conflicting reports regarding the impact of inhaled propylene glycol. Here’s what you need to know. A horse was also reported to suffer a myocardial edema after a mistaken oral dosage of a very large amount of propylene glycol. Beef Gelatin: What Are the Benefits & How Does It Compare to Collagen? There is no hard and fast answer to that question, however — according to a fair amount of research, the effects of propylene glycol are rarely negative and generally associated with extremely large, intravenous dosage levels. The most common skin reaction, or dermatitis, is the development of a rash on the face or in a generalized scattered pattern over the body (32). In foods, propylene glycol may be used in the following ways (3, 4, 5): Propylene glycol is commonly found in many packaged foods, such as drink mixes, dressings, dried soups, cake mix, soft drinks, popcorn, food coloring, fast foods, bread and dairy products (6). There is a lot of conflicting information about the dangers of propylene glycol. This enzyme is essential for the breakdown of propylene glycol (1, 9, 20). In the case of propylene glycol, it should be no different. Considering the large amount of dangerous chemicals we encounter on a regular basis, this may be of even more danger than the compound itself. Propylene glycol is in a lot of personal care products, and some people get contact dermatitis (AKA a red, itchy rash) when they come into contact with it. Alternatively, you can use a freeze-dried food as a mixer or booster with other dog food to make a nutritionally balanced diet. Once again, the amounts of propylene glycol in food have no association with neurological changes. The rest is broken down in the body into lactic acid (1, 14). When administered large doses of Lorazepam, adults with or without kidney issues have experienced an abnormal buildup of propylene glycol. That doesn’t necessarily quell concerns, however. Relieves excess gas from food or swallowing of air; No alcohol, parabens, artificial dyes, or artificial flavors ... citric acid, natural strawberry flavor, propylene glycol, purified water, sodium benzoate, sucralose and xanthan gum. The amount of propylene glycol found in a normal diet is not associated with any heart problems in children or adults. People who already operate with poor kidney function are unlikely to be able to process propylene glycol efficiently and should avoid exposure when possible. How To Avoid Propylene Glycol. Let’s take a look at the current research and potential effects of propylene glycol. Many people are extremely concerned by the presence of an ingredient in antifreeze (one that’s used to deice airplanes, no less) in their food, which has sparked uproar in recent years, especially when three European countries pulled a popular alcoholic drink off the shelves for an, The body of research surrounding this substance is considered “fair,” according to the Environmental Working Group’s assessment. While these populations may be at increased risk of toxicity in the case of very high exposure from medication, there is no research indicating any harm from the amounts found in the diet. , a toxic chemical compound still used in many types of antifreeze and other household products. Although this chemical compound is not generally found in nature, it seems to be potentially safe. 30. You should also think about your dog and its dietary needs. On Dec. 14, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force issued guidance on the Pfizer vaccine, which had been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) three days prior.In their guidance, the organization pointed out one specific ingredient that may cause problems for those with a history of allergies to it. One woman with kidney damage was treated for short breath and throat swelling with lorazepam. Propylene oxide is considered a “probable carcinogen.” Finally, through a. process (separating molecules by the addition of water), you get propylene glycol. (, One interesting case study followed a 24-year-old woman diagnosed with pneumonia. For the most part, if an ingredient sounds like a chemical (like propylene glycol) or has a number in it (like Red 40), it probably isn’t good for your dog. One of them developed severe unspecified neurological symptoms (30). This had led to health concerns about possible toxic effects from eating foods that contain it. Moreover, there are no reported deaths on record (1, 9). Guar gum is a common additive used in processed foods. When administered large doses of Lorazepam, adults with or without kidney issues have experienced an abnormal buildup of propylene glycol. On its own, propylene glycol is a clear, odorless liquid that is a bit more syrupy than water. There are several helpful websites that can help you identify which products contain it. In this case, a rash may develop in sensitive people when their skin comes into contact with products that contain it, such as shampoo or moisturizer (6). After Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) earlier this week, an FDA panel deemed the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine candidate ‘Highly Effective’ with no serious allergic reactions observed. What Are the Benefits and Risks of Cellulose Gum? Propylene oxide is considered a “probable carcinogen.” Finally, through a hydrolyzation process (separating molecules by the addition of water), you get propylene glycol. Animal studies also demonstrate that very high doses of propylene glycol can rapidly decrease heart rate, cause low blood pressure and even cause the heart to stop (25, 26). Generally, if you had a severe allergy to propylene glycol, you would know it far before you ever used an e liquid containing it. It is miscible with water, acetone and chloroform. The International Numbering System for Food Additives (INS) is a European-based naming system for food additives, aimed at providing a short designation of what may be a lengthy actual name. These soothing drops rely on propylene glycol to relieve dry, irritated eyes and contain a special formula that moisturizes the lipid layer of the eye. Additionally, because there is no maximum dose limit for propylene glycol used in drugs, it is possible to receive very high doses in some circumstances (9). It is true that when propylene glycol is injected in high amounts or too quickly, a drop in blood pressure and heart rhythm problems can occur (20). INGREDIENTS. It is also used in injectable medications, like lorazepam, and in some creams and ointments that are applied to the skin, such as corticosteroids (2, 7). This article explains what they are, what symptoms they cause and what you can do about it. Propylene glycol is a useful chemical found in a wide variety of products across the food, drug, cosmetic and manufacturing industries. (7) Generally, creatinine (a product of muscle breakdown and growth) remains in consistent levels in the bloodstream. Do not use: • if you have bloody or black stool. An alternative can usually be found. Department of Dermatology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago, IL [email protected] University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign North Shore Center for Medical Aesthetics Northbrook, IL. (1) Another name for it is “propane-1,2-diol,” which is sometimes used when listing it as a compound on ingredient labels. (. What Is Swai Fish? Skin and Allergic Reactions. your liver from damage done by the common headache medication, Prospective mothers are usually very cautious during and after. Ibuprofen may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin. It’s certainly less dangerous than, for example. Consumers were amazed and frustrated to hear that their favorite foods and drinks might contain the chemical, exacerbated by its presence in so many other daily products. In Europe, it is only allowed to be used in food as a solvent for colors, emulsifiers, antioxidants and enzymes, with up to 0.45 grams per pound (1 gram/kg) allowed in the final food product (9). However, the organization states in the report that, “No studies were located regarding respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, hepatic, renal, endocrine, dermal, ocular, or body weight effects in humans, or musculoskeletal, dermal, or ocular effects in animals after oral exposure to propylene glycol.” Similar statements were made about skin exposure and inhalation exposure. It rates, a “3” on its health concerns scale, meaning the hazard it presents is moderately low. Other common personal care items on that list might include: When you look at a list of foods containing propylene glycol, you’ll notice that many of them aren’t really great for you to begin with. (, It’s not “bioaccumulative.” This means that, in normal dosage or exposure levels, propylene glycol breaks down in the body within 48 hours in individuals with healthy kidney and liver function and does not accumulate over time to create toxicity in the body. She was given Lorazepam for 18 days to treat her severe respiratory distress, at which time she developed lactic acidosis, a condition marked by lowering the body’s pH level to a dangerous extreme. When given Lorazepam for an extended period of time in large doses, clinicians have discovered possible kidney issues in the form of increased. ) Il glicole propilenico o 1,2-propandiolo è un composto chimico (un diolo o doppio alcol) di formula C 3 H 8 O 2 o HO-CH 2-CHOH-CH 3. Along with VG, PG is generally recognized as safe for consumption by the United States Food and Drug Administration and is non toxic, and thus widely used in many household products and foods. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. People who already operate with poor kidney function are unlikely to be able to process. In comparison, one person who developed symptoms of toxicity was receiving 213 grams of propylene glycol per day. It’s best to stick with as many unprocessed, raw or natural foods as you can. ), Dog and cat food (you probably won’t eat this one, but Spot will care! In order to protect your general health, hormone balance and overall chemical exposure, there are a few ways to avoid propylene glycol when possible. As it’s a fairly common ingredient in smoke machines (for theater productions) and other inhalable substances, this is an important distinction to make. It gives soft drinks a tangy flavor and prevents the growth of mold and bacteria. It has practically no taste (1). Propylene glycol is commonly used as an additive to aid in the processing of foods and improve their texture, flavor, appearance and shelf life. Dr. Josh Axe is on a mission to provide you and your family with the highest quality nutrition tips and healthy recipes in the world...Sign up to get VIP access to his eBooks and valuable weekly health tips for FREE! He developed symptoms of toxicity, including non-responsiveness and irregular heart rhythms, but recovered after the vitamin solution was stopped (28). (6). Very high amounts of propylene glycol were used in both of these studies, yet another study found effects at smaller doses. 9 Signs of a Protein Deficiency + How to Fix, Sucralose: 5 Reasons to Avoid This Artificial Sweetener. Propylene glycol is far from the most dangerous ingredient hiding in your food. You can also use. Patient has allergies to several antibiotics, pain meds, propylene glycol, plus sensitivity to insect bites (fleas, bees). (, Before the completed growth of these enzyme pathways, parents should avoid allowing their children to ingest or be exposed to many chemicals that are potentially harmful, and pregnant mothers should do the same. It’s also a common ingredient in electronic cigarettes, contributing to taste and “smoothness” of the smoke. While these symptoms may sound scary, it should be emphasized that many different medications and substances can cause similar symptoms when ingested or given in quantities that cause toxicity. Critically ill patients often have impaired kidney or liver function and may also have an increased risk from prolonged or high-dose drug treatments. You should always refer to the product label for the most accurate information. I did mention earlier that propylene glycol is not considered bioaccumulative (builds up over time in the bloodstream). The cream was used for treating burns that covered 78% of his body (27). In one report, an 8-month-old child suffered loss of heart function and subsequent brain damage after being treated with silver sulfadiazine cream that contained propylene glycol. Ask a doctor before use if you have: • fever • mucus in the stool Contact allergy to propylene glycol in topical corticosteroids. As a food additive, at least one study has said that it should be avoided. However, it has become controversial since it is also an ingredient in antifreeze. It is a colorless, odorless, slightly syrupy liquid that is a bit thicker than water. (. ) Shop Target for clean hair care products at prices you'll love. One such patient was an 8-month-old who suffered a heart attack after four doses of topical medication to treat a burn. Perhaps the most concerning part of constant propylene glycol exposure is the way that it may provide other chemicals a free pass into your bloodstream. Winter Melon for Digestion, Weight Loss & More, Tatsoi: The Immune-Boosting, Heart-Healthy Benefits of ‘Vitamin Green’. A 2007 study from the University of Connecticut assessed the treatment of propylene glycol toxicity and also noted it can be dangerous for those with liver problems. Well, welcome to that help! ), Flavored coffee, including flavored ice coffee, However, feel free to use some of the recipes on my website to create homemade salad dressings and guilt-free (and chemical-free) desserts. Make use of it! A synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water, propylene glycol classified by the chemical formula C3H8O2. Contact Dermatitis. Stoffet er vandsugende og lader sig blande med vand, acetone og kloroform.Som tilsætningsstof bærer det betegnelsen E-1520 (14). instead of margarine for an immediate health booster to your cooking. The toxicity of propylene glycol is very low. Propene is converted to propylene oxide, a volatile compound used frequently in the creation process of polyurethane plastics (and to create propylene glycol). and overall chemical exposure, there are a few ways to avoid propylene glycol when possible. She was given Lorazepam for 18 days to treat her severe respiratory distress, at which time she developed, , a condition marked by lowering the body’s pH level to a dangerous extreme. A fresh, whole foods diet will naturally contain lower amounts of this additive. (12). Heart disease and symptoms have been commonly associated with propylene glycol exposure, mostly in part due to a few case studies that have caused alarming concern. 100% of liquid syrups and gelcaps tested were said to contain at least 1 of the 10 allergen families. Several common foods containing this compound include: Most natural alternatives to propylene glycol involve choosing foods and cosmetics free of the substance. As a food additive, at least one study has said that it should be avoided. While some research states that neonates (preterm infants) have been found to have no adverse side effects from propylene glycol, it’s also true that infants cannot break down this compound as quickly as an adult can. (11), The one area in which the CDC’s toxicity profile negatively assessed propylene glycol was in the area of neurological symptoms. Beneful dry dog foods contain an ingredient toxic to animals, propylene glycol, a chemical used in automobile antifreeze. According to the American Contact Dermatitis Society, propylene glycol is the 2018 allergen of the year. Some websites claim that propylene glycol increases the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Excess creatinine is a sign that the kidney is unable to process compounds at a normal rate. These symptoms disappeared within 6 hours (31). After ingesting a food containing propylene glycol, about 45% of it will be excreted by the kidneys unchanged. 2. a purified protein of a food (such as milk, eggs, or wheat), bacterium, or pollen. Antifreeze poisoning can lead to serious health complications if not treated early. Before the completed growth of these enzyme pathways, parents should avoid allowing their children to ingest or be exposed to many chemicals that are potentially harmful, and pregnant mothers should do the same. There are many nasty ingredients out there, but in this post I want to touch on two that I find particularly bad: Propylene Glycol and Polyethylene Glycol. (, ) (Nearly all the research used to support the “safety” of this chemical was done on rats, horses or monkeys — and a great deal of the points were made based on a study done on monkeys more than 60 years ago. Propylene glycol is considered “generally” safe by the FDA. When given Lorazepam for an extended period of time in large doses, clinicians have discovered possible kidney issues in the form of increased creatinine levels in the blood. On Purina's website, the company notes that propylene glycol is an FDA-approved food additive that's used in human food products. Yet for most people, the amounts regularly found in food products are considered safe. adj., adj allergen´ic. There have been some reports of propylene glycol causing brain-related symptoms. It’s important here to note that the humans in the noted studies above had been exposed to orally administered medication containing propylene glycol and were most likely allergic to it. Propylene glycol Sabadilla alkaloids Sulfur, sublimed Thiocyanoacetate (ii) Approved as of June 14, 1994. Xanthan Gum — Is This Food Additive Healthy or Harmful? It is miscib le in water. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. This liquid substance is fraught with inconsistencies in research, as well as many differing opinions on whether propylene glycol is a dangerous toxin or a mostly harmless compound. 1993;4(1):37-38. Our team includes licensed nutritionists and dietitians, certified health education specialists, as well as certified strength and conditioning specialists, personal trainers and corrective exercise specialists.