The use and effects of propylene glycol have been thoroughly researched. It has been used safely for more than 50 years, including adoption in health-sensitive applications such as food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, where the molecule mainly serves as non-active ingredient or carrier of other substances.
Studies have proven that propylene glycol has a very low degree of toxicity. In the body, propylene glycol is rapidly converted into lactic acid, in a similar manner to what happens with with sugar (energy) in the muscles during sports.
For the environment, studies have shown that propylene glycol is neither persistent nor does it bio-accumulate - it is readily biodegradable.
Accordingly, there is
In addition, all members of the sector group representing the producers of propylene glycol within Cefic are committed to Responsible Care®, a voluntary initiative of the chemical industry aimed at continuous improvement of their health, safety and environmental performance in handling chemicals.