Peg-4
Low-MW PEGs (such as PEG-4) are absorbed systemically when ingested and have potential nephrotoxicity at high doses. PEG-4 is used in cosmetics, not as a direct food additive.
What it is
Polyethylene glycol with average molecular weight ~200 (~4 ethylene oxide units); a low-MW PEG.
Cosmetic humectant and solvent. Not approved as a direct food additive at low molecular weight; high-MW PEG (PEG-3350, PEG-8000) is used in pharma and limited food applications.
Why it's flagged
- low-MW PEGs are absorbed and can cause renal effects at high doses
- potential 1,4-dioxane / ethylene oxide impurities
- not approved direct food additive at this MW
What regulators actually say
"Polyethylene glycol (mean molecular weight 200 to 9,500) may be safely used in or on food only as specified — limited to high-molecular-weight forms for specified uses."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Not direct food additive at PEG-4 MW; certain higher-MW PEGs used in food coatings (21 CFR 172.820 PEG ≥1000).
European Union — EFSA
PEG (E 1521 polyethylene glycol) ≥3350 authorized in limited food uses; low-MW not authorized.
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