E422 · INS 422Sometimes animal

Glycerol (glycerin)

Common US / international name: glycerol / glycerin

Origin: Humectant and sweetish solvent used across foods and cosmetics.
What it depends on: Can be a by-product of soap from animal or plant fats, or made from plant oils and biodiesel. Vegetable glycerin is labeled when the seller wants to signal plant origin.
Where it typically appears: Cakes, bars, fondant, soft candies, e-liquids (non-food).
Product groups: Bakery, Sweets
Source: EU Reg. No 1333/2008 Annex II; Codex CAC/GL 36-1989; Open Food Facts additives taxonomy (ODbL). As of September 1, 2026