Mono- and Diglycerides

Also known as: Glycerol monostearate, E471

Emulsifier · E471

US-EU Regulatory Divergence

This additive has different regulatory status in the US and EU — what's permitted in one region may be restricted or banned in the other.

Regulatory Status

United States (FDA)

GRAS

FDA GRAS status. Can contain trans fats but exempt from trans fat labeling requirements.

European Union (EFSA)

Approved

Approved in EU. No ADI established.

Safety Profile

Safe as an additive. The controversy is the trans fat labeling exemption — foods can claim "0g trans fat" while containing trans fats from mono/diglycerides.

Health Concerns

  • May contain trans fats (exempt from US labeling)
  • Trans fat content is typically small but untracked
  • The labeling loophole is the main concern, not the additive itself

Commonly Found In

BreadMargarinePeanut butterIce creamWhipped toppings

Sources: FDA Substances Added to Food, EFSA opinions, EU Regulation 1333/2008, IARC monographs

SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.