E442

Emulsifiers, Stabilisers, Thickeners and Gelling Agents.
Manufactured either synthetically or from a mixture of Glycerol (E422) and partially hardened rape seed oil.

Used mainly as an emulsifier, to lower the surface tension of water so allowing the better combining of oils, fats and water, and as a stabiliser, to prevent separation. Similar in use to Lecithin (E322). Limited use as an antioxidant.

Vegetarians should note that although industrial manufacturing based on propylene or sugar accounts for a large percentage of glycerol production, it can be obtained as a by-product in making soap from animal and vegetable fats and oils.

Found in cocoa and chocolate products. It is the emulsifier found in Cadbury's Dairy Milk chocolate.