Ingredient Information

Function

Vegetable glycerine is also known as vegetable glycerol. It is a carbohydrate derived from plants that is used as a sweetener. Vegetable glycerine does not affect blood sugar because it is metabolized differently. It is resistant to freezing and is often used in foods marketed to diabetics as “low carb.” It keeps processed foods moist and sweet. Food grade vegetable glycerine is 99.7% pure, containing only .03% water. It is sometimes found in coffee and tea flavorings, as well as in soft drinks.

Other Use and Industries

Vegetable glycerine is used in cosmetics such as glycerin soap for sensitive skin and lotions. It is the primary ingredient in some laxatives. Vegetable glycerine is often used in place of alcohol to extract botanicals. It is used in labs to store sensitive liquids, like enzymes, because it is resistant to freezing.

Health Effects

Consumption of vegetable glycerine as a sweetener does not lead to tooth decay. Vegetable glycerine has no effect on blood sugar. Some individuals have reported allergic reactions to the coconut palm, from which vegetable glycerin is often derived. Some forms of vegetable glycerine contain preservatives and sulfur, so care should be taken to identify the source of vegetable glycerine and accompanying ingredients. Some synthetic forms of glycerol, like polypropylene glycol, are toxic and produce alcohol-like effects on the central nervous system. Synthetic glycerol has also contributed to renal failure and fatalities in humans and animals.

Origins

Vegetable glycerine is an organic compound consisting of three carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, and three OH groups. It is formed primarily by the saponification of fats. The OH group binding increases viscosity, giving liquid glycerine the consistency of syrup. Vegetable glycerine is made from vegetable oils, often coconut or palm oil.