Butylene Glycol
1,3-Butylene glycol is permitted by FDA as a flavor solvent (21 CFR 172.712) with use limits depending on food category. CIR review judges it safe in cosmetics.
What it is
1,3-Butylene glycol, a synthetic diol used as a humectant and solvent; primarily found in cosmetics but occasionally in food flavorings.
Solvent/carrier for flavors; humectant.
Why it's flagged
- limited dietary safety data at high intake
What regulators actually say
"1,3-Butylene glycol may be safely used in food in accordance with the following prescribed conditions...as a flavoring agent and as a carrier for natural and synthetic flavoring substances."
"1,3-Butylene glycol - food additive permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as a flavor adjuvant per 21 CFR 172.712 with maximum-use limits
European Union — EFSA
Not commonly approved as a direct food additive in EU
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