Recently, the Drugs Controller General of India directed drug manufacturers to stop using propylene glycol sourced from the Delhi-based firm that supplied the ingredient to Marion Biotech, whose cough syrups were linked to the deaths of 19 children in Uzbekistan.

 

About Propylene Glycol

  • Propylene glycol is a synthetic food additive that belongs to the same chemical group as alcohol.
  • Characteristics of Propylene Glycol —
      • Propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water.
      • It is a clear, colourless, slightly syrupy liquid at room temperature.
      • It may exist in air in the vapour form, although propylene glycol must be heated or briskly shaken to produce a vapour.
      • It is practically odourless and tasteless.

 

What are the uses of Propylene Glycol?

  • Propylene glycol is used to make polyester compounds and as a base for deicing solutions.
  • Propylene glycol is used by the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical industries as an antifreeze when leakage might lead to contact with food.
  • It is used to absorb extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics, or food products.
  • It is a solvent for food colours and flavours and in the paint and plastics industries.
  • Propylene glycol is also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire-fighting training and theatrical productions.