Ingredient · E1518

Glyceryl triacetate

Source
Unknown
Not yet classified by editors
Allergen
No
Role in food
Triacetin is used as a food additive, primarily as a humectant, solvent, and plasticiser. …

What is Glyceryl triacetate?

Glyceryl triacetate, also known as triacetin, is a triglyceride of acetic acid. It is a colourless, odourless, oily liquid. It can be produced synthetically from glycerol and acetic acid or derived from natural sources through esterification.

Is Glyceryl triacetate gluten-free?

It is not a source of gluten.

Is Glyceryl triacetate a major allergen?

Glyceryl triacetate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Glyceryl triacetate used for?

Triacetin is used as a food additive, primarily as a humectant, solvent, and plasticiser.

Is Glyceryl triacetate safe?

Triacetin is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU.

Why it's used

Triacetin is used as a food additive, primarily as a humectant, solvent, and plasticiser. It helps to retain moisture in foods and can be used as a carrier for flavourings and colourings. It is found in a variety of processed foods, including baked goods, confectionery, and some beverages.

Health notes

Triacetin is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated triacetin and found no safety concerns at estimated intake levels. JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. It is generally considered safe for consumption when used as permitted.

Regulatory status

Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products

Permitted uses in the EU

Glyceryl triacetate (triacetin) · legislation: (EU) No 1129/2011

Food categoryMaximum level
5.3 chewing gumNo numerical limit listed

Maximum levels are shown as published (mg/kg or mg/l, depending on the food). Some entries carry extra conditions and group authorisations are not listed here, so check the full entry before relying on a figure.

Sources: Food Standards Agency (OGL v3); European Commission, Food Additives Database.

Allergen info

Glyceryl triacetate is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.

Foods that contain Glyceryl triacetate

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.