E 1201 Polyvinylpyrrolidone

What is E 1201?

E 1201 is the E number of Polyvinylpyrrolidone. Synthetic substance used mainly in food supplements in tablet form and in table-top sweeteners.

What is E 1201 used for?

E 1201 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as stabiliser, thickener.

• Stabiliser: Stabilisers maintain the physical state of a food, such as an even mixture or colour.
• Thickener: Thickeners increase the viscosity of a food.

Which foods may contain E 1201?

According to the European Commission's database, E 1201 may be used in 3 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Food supplements

Is E 1201 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 1201 linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 1201 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Stabiliser: E 1201" or "Stabiliser: Polyvinylpyrrolidone".