Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil is broadly used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals (CIR-reviewed); food use is more limited and region-dependent. EFSA assessed PEG-related additives with concerns about residual ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane impurities; manufacturers must control these to specified limits.
What it is
Polyethylene glycol (60-mer) ether of hydrogenated castor oil; nonionic surfactant/solubilizer.
Solubilizer for oil-soluble flavors and vitamins in some clear beverages and pharmaceutical/cosmetic formulations.
Why it's flagged
- Possible residual 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide impurities
- Limited U.S. food-additive status
What regulators actually say
"FDA notes that the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) program assesses the safety of cosmetic ingredients including PEG derivatives such as PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Cosmetic/pharmaceutical use; not a generally permitted food additive in the U.S.
European Union — EFSA
PEG-related additives reviewed; not broadly authorized as food additive.
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