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Gruene Biotechnologie Independent explanations: genetic engineering, plants and food Check a label

What is E 422?

E 422 is the E number of Glycerol. Sweet-tasting substance that keeps foods moist. It is obtained from vegetable or animal fats and used in sweets and baked goods.

What is E 422 used for?

E 422 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as humectant, carrier.

  • Humectant: Humectants prevent foods from drying out.
  • Carrier: Carriers dissolve, dilute or disperse other additives, flavourings or nutrients without having a technical effect themselves.

Which foods may contain E 422?

According to the European Commission's database, E 422 may be used in 69 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

  • Dairy products and analogues
  • Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
  • Edible ices
  • Fruit and vegetables
  • Confectionery
  • Cereals and cereal products
  • Bakery wares
  • Meat
  • Fish and fisheries products
  • Eggs and egg products
  • Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
  • Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
  • Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
  • Beverages
  • Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
  • Desserts
  • Food supplements
  • Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 422 vegan?

Vegan depending on origin: may come from plant or animal raw materials. The label usually does not say which.

Is E 422 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 422 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 "Humectant: E 422" or "Humectant: Glycerol".

Sources