1‚2-Hexanediol
1,2-Hexanediol is primarily a cosmetic ingredient and is not on FDA's permitted food additive list as a standalone food ingredient. It is used at low concentrations in cosmetics and judged safe for topical use by Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
What it is
1,2-Hexanediol, a synthetic diol primarily used as a humectant and preservative booster in cosmetics.
Not a typical food additive; predominantly used in cosmetics. Inclusion on a food list is unusual.
Why it's flagged
- limited food-grade safety data
- not a standard food additive
What regulators actually say
"The CIR Expert Panel concluded that 1,2-hexanediol ... is safe in the present practices of use and concentration in cosmetics."
"FDA's legal authority over cosmetics is different from other products regulated by the agency."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
No specific food additive regulation; permitted in cosmetics.
European Union — EFSA
No EU food additive authorization; cosmetic ingredient regulated under Regulation 1223/2009.
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