Propylene Glycol: Weighing the Long-term Consumption Concerns

Many nootropics you buy online or from stores typically contain a blend of nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) plus 'inactive ingredients' (typically a bunch of additives and excipients).

Propylene Glycol is one such common additive. It's a synthetic liquid, transparent, and odorless. And it has many uses—from an anti-caking agent, antioxidant, and flavor enhancer to an emulsifier, adjuvant, stabilizer, or thickener.*^1,2,3

However, while Propylene Glycol is an FDA-approved additive, and the FDA monitors its use in nootropics for safety, there is a growing concern among consumers about potential health concerns associated with this synthetic additive.*

Here's what you need to know:

Propylene Glycol levels in nootropics (and foods) can exceed WHO's recommendations.*

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a guideline of 11.4 mg of Propylene Glycol per kilogram of body weight as the acceptable daily intake. That may be below what you would typically find in your favorite nootropic.*

But here's the catch: Since it's a common additive, Propylene Glycol, it's virtually everywhere.

You may get some from your daily nootropic (plus some from processed food snacks or meals). On top of that, maybe add the tiny amount that can typically be in your favorite beverages, baked goods, frozen meals, and even some salad dressings. It all adds up.

And that's just in the food domain. Propylene Glycol also finds its way into personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and deodorants. All these can increase your daily exposure to this potentially dangerous additive.*

While your body typically processes and eliminates Propylene Glycol relatively quickly, the concern here is the cumulative exposure over time (especially when it's a regular part of your daily diet).*

So, how can Propylene Glycol become a potential health risk?

While toxicity from Propylene Glycol is considered rare, some research suggests potential health concerns:^1,4

• Skin irritation & allergic reactions*⁵
• Heart challenges*^6,7
• Liver and kidney challenges*^4,8
• Neurological challenges*^9,10

Who is most vulnerable?

Some studies suggest that Propylene Glycol may cause allergic reactions in certain individuals: people with liver or kidney issues, young adults, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems.*^4,11,12

These groups may be more prone to the potential Propylene Glycol adverse effects.*

How can you avoid it?

If you are allergic or simply want to reduce exposure to potentially harmful additives, the first step is identifying products that contain Propylene Glycol.

Luckily, it's easy to spot. Simply check your favorite nootropic (or food) labels for terms like Propylene Glycol, or Propylene Glycol mono and diester. In the European Union (EU), Propylene Glycol is typically labeled as E1520 or 1520.