E490
Propane-1,2-diol
Thickeners, stabilisers and emulsifiers
E490 is a cosmetic product in the EU. It has E-number E1520 in foodstuffs. GRAS (Generally recognized as safe) by the US Food and Drug Administration. Can be obtained from glycerol, a byproduct from the production of biodiesel. In regulated amounts, propylene glycol is designated as safe for food manufacturing as an anticaking agent, emulsifier, flavor agent, humectant, texturizer, stabilizer, solvent, antioxidant, antimicrobial agent, and thickener. Used in a variety of other edible items, such as baked goods, desserts, prepared meals, flavoring mixes, candy, popcorn, whipped dairy products, and soda. It is also used in beer to stabilize the foam. Propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, or a mixture of both, are the main ingredients in e-liquid used in electronic cigarettes.