# Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene)

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly-oxyethylene
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly-oxyethylene.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 977044-31-7
**Category:** other
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) is a synthetic surfactant compound used as a processing aid in food manufacturing. It functions to facilitate various food production processes by modifying surface tension and improving processing efficiency.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene)?

Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) is a synthetic surfactant belonging to the polyethylene glycol (PEG) class of compounds. Identified by CAS Number 977044-31-7, this compound consists of a hydrocarbon chain (alkyl group) bonded to a polyoxyethylene backbone with terminal hydroxyl functionality. The molecule's amphiphilic structure—containing both water-repelling and water-attracting regions—enables its primary function in food processing applications.

## Common Uses

This additive is classified as a processing aid, meaning it is used during food manufacturing but is not intended to remain in the final product at significant levels. Processing aids are typically removed, degraded, or rendered inactive during processing or storage. Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) may be used in food production to modify surface properties, improve mixing efficiency, or enhance processing performance in various manufacturing stages. Specific applications have not been widely documented in public food safety literature, reflecting its specialized industrial use.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events and zero recalls associated with alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene). This absence of documented safety incidents suggests the compound has not generated consumer health concerns in food applications. However, it is important to note that the lack of reported incidents does not constitute formal FDA approval or GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status.

The compound belongs to the polyethylene glycol family, for which extensive safety data exists at the broader class level. Many PEG-based compounds have been extensively studied and determined to be safe for food applications. However, each specific chemical entity requires individual evaluation, and specific toxicological studies for this particular formulation may be limited in publicly available literature.

As a processing aid used at low levels and potentially removed during processing, dietary exposure is expected to be minimal. The chemical's water-soluble nature and lack of bioaccumulation potential are relevant toxicological considerations typical of this compound class.

## Regulatory Status

Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) is not currently listed on the FDA's GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) inventory. This designation does not indicate the substance is unsafe; rather, it reflects that formal GRAS status determination has not been completed through the established FDA notification process. The compound may be used in food under other regulatory provisions or may be subject to specific authorization limits in certain jurisdictions.

Regulatory approaches to processing aids vary internationally. Some jurisdictions permit processing aids with demonstrated safety profiles and minimal residual presence in finished foods, even without explicit GRAS listings. The compound's status should be verified with current regulations in any specific country or region where it is used or marketed.

## Key Studies

Publicly available specific toxicological studies exclusively focused on alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) are limited. Safety assessment relies primarily on: (1) the general safety profile of polyethylene glycol-based surfactants established through decades of industrial and pharmaceutical use; (2) the chemical's physical and chemical properties suggesting low biological activity; and (3) the absence of reported adverse events or regulatory actions in food applications.

Manufacturers and regulatory bodies typically evaluate processing aids based on their composition, intended use level, expected dietary exposure, and removal efficiency during processing. Additional proprietary safety data may exist with manufacturers but is not publicly disclosed. Anyone requiring detailed safety information should consult with manufacturers or regulatory authorities directly.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly(oxyethylene) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/alpha-alkyl-omega-hydroxy-poly-oxyethylene. Accessed 2026-05-12.