Glycerol at a glance

Category
Humectant
Also called
Glycerin, Glycerine, 1,2,3-Propanetriol
Commonly found in
Baked goods, Candies, Soft drinks, Processed meats
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Glycerol?

Glycerol, commonly referred to as glycerin, is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid. It is a sugar alcohol compound used in a variety of food products as a sweetener, humectant, and thickener. Glycerol can be obtained from different sources, including plant oils, animal fats, or synthesized from petrochemicals. In the food industry, it is valued for its ability to retain moisture and improve texture.

Also known as:

GlycerinGlycerine1,2,3-Propanetriol

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid that can be derived from either plant or animal fats, or from petrochemicals. It is often avoided on a corn-free diet because it can be produced from corn or corn byproducts. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

Learn more →
Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Learn more →
Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Learn more →
Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Learn more →
Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Learn more →
Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

Learn more →
GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Learn more →
Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Learn more →
Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Learn more →
Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Learn more →
Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Learn more →
Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Learn more →
Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Learn more →
Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Learn more →
Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Learn more →
Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

Learn more →
PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

Learn more →
Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Learn more →
Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Learn more →
Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Learn more →
Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Learn more →
Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

Learn more →
VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

Learn more →
VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

Learn more →
Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Learn more →

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Glycerol

People on a corn-free diet may avoid glycerol because it can be produced from corn or corn byproducts. While the glycerol itself does not necessarily contain corn proteins that typically cause allergic reactions, individuals with corn sensitivities need to contact manufacturers to confirm the source of glycerol used, as it may be derived from corn in some cases.

Potential Reactions

  • Allergic reaction in individuals sensitive to corn derivatives

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Glycerol

Browse products that match your diet.

Explore Products

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping

Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play