What Is Vegetable Glycerine? EP/USP Grades Explained

Vegetable glycerine, often shortened to VG and also known as glycerol, is a clear, odourless, slightly sweet liquid. It is made from plant oils such as palm, soy or coconut, and is one of the most widely used ingredients in the world.

How is it made?

Plant oils are split, usually with heat, pressure and water, into fatty acids and glycerine. The glycerine is then purified and distilled to remove impurities, colour and odour.

What do EP and USP mean?

• EP means it meets the European Pharmacopoeia standard.
• USP means it meets the United States Pharmacopeia standard.

These pharmacopoeia standards set strict limits on purity, water content and contaminants. A product that meets them is suitable for demanding cosmetic and food uses. Our VG is also certified Halal and Kosher.

Key properties

• Humectant: it attracts and holds water, which is why it is used in moisturisers.
• Thick and viscous: about 1,000 times thicker than water at room temperature.
• Water-soluble: mixes easily with water and PG.
• Stable: long shelf life when sealed and stored correctly.

Popular uses

• DIY skincare: toners, serums, lotions and hand creams
• Soap making and melt-and-pour bases
• Food use (E422): keeping icing soft and baked goods moist
• DIY liquid bases mixed with PG
• Fog machine fluid with distilled water
• Giant bubble mixture

Handling tip

VG thickens in the cold. If it is too slow to pour, stand the sealed bottle in warm (not boiling) water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Shop: Vegetable Glycerine EP/USP from small bottles to bulk sizes.