E475 · Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E475?
Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids are emulsifiers made by combining polyglycerol with fatty acids. They help stabilize emulsions and improve texture in margarine, ice cream, confectionery, and baked goods, and are used as anti-bloom agents in chocolate coatings. The fatty acid source can be plant or animal derived. They are considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Also appears on labels as: Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids, Polyglycerol esters, PGE, Polyglycerol fatty acid esters, Fatty acid esters of polyglycerol, E475, E 475, E-475, Polyglycerol monoesters, Polyglycerol diesters, Polyglycerol triesters, Mixed polyglycerol esters of fatty acids.
What the evidence says
- Fatty acid source (plant or animal) is often unspecified, relevant for vegans, vegetarians, and religious diets.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Re‐evaluation of polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (E 475) as a food additive — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS), EFSA Journal (2017). The EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) provides a scientific opinion re-evaluating the safety of polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (PEFA, E 475) as a food additive. The Panel concluded that there was no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) and that there is no safety concern for the general population when polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (E 475) are used as a food additive.[safe]
- Follow‐up of the re‐evaluation of polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (E 475) and polyglycerol polyricinoleate (E 476) — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF), EFSA Journal (2022). The EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF Panel) was requested to assess data provided in support of amendments to EU specifications for polyglycerol esters of fatty acids (E 475) and polyglycerol polyricinoleate (E 476). The Panel confirmed the previous safety assessments and concluded that the proposed amendments do not raise safety concerns.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E475 safe?
Our overall verdict for E475 (Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E475 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids — vegan: no, vegetarian: no, halal: no, kosher: no, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E475 and why is it used?
Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids are emulsifiers made by combining polyglycerol with fatty acids. They help stabilize emulsions and improve texture in margarine, ice cream, confectionery, and baked goods, and are used as anti-bloom agents in chocolate coatings. The fatty acid source can be plant or animal derived. They are considered safe for food use at typical levels.
Does E475 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.