Where Is Glycerin Derived From?

Glycerin refers to a transparent, odorless liquid with a thick consistency and a sweet taste. Glycerin is derived from animal fats, vegetable fats or petroleum. Petroleum-derived glycerin is called synthetic glycerin.

Natural Glycerin

Glycerin is derived from animal fats, such as pork, and vegetable fats, such as seaweed and coconut oil. Many vegetarians and vegans avoid products made with glycerin, since they often are made from animals.

Synthetic Glycerin

Synthetic glycerin comes from petroleum or petroleum products. Since petroleum is a non-renewable resource, most glycerin comes from natural sources.

Uses

Glycerin is used to make soap, lotion, lubricants, printing ink, cake and candy, medicine, nitroglycerin and preservatives. It also sometimes is found in toothpaste, chewing gum, plastics and transmission fluid.

Fun Fact

The word glycerin comes from the Greek word "glykeros," which means sweet.

References

• "Proceedings of the World Conference on Palm and Coconut Oils for the 21st Century"; E. Charles Leonard, Edward G. Perkins, and Arno Cahn; 1999
• Karaite Jewish Congregation: Glycerin
• PETA: Animal Ingredients List
• Online Etymology Dictionary: Glycerin