# Polyvinyl Polypyrrolidone

> Source URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/polyvinyl-polypyrrolidone
> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/polyvinyl-polypyrrolidone.md

**Safety rating:** SAFE
**CAS number:** 977043-97-2
**Category:** other
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

Polyvinyl Polypyrrolidone (PVPP) is a synthetic polymer used as a processing aid and surface-finishing agent in food manufacturing. It functions primarily to remove unwanted compounds during production rather than remaining in the final food product.

## Regulatory status

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

## Detailed analysis

## What is Polyvinyl Polypyrrolidone?

Polyvinyl Polypyrrolidone (PVPP) is a synthetic, water-insoluble polymer created by cross-linking polyvinyl alcohol with polypyrrolidone. The compound has the CAS number 977043-97-2 and belongs to the category of processing aids used in food manufacturing. As a processing aid, PVPP is designed to be removed from food during production and typically does not remain in significant quantities in the final product.

## Common Uses

PVPP is primarily utilized in beverage production, particularly in the clarification and polishing of alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and spirits. Its main function is to adsorb and remove unwanted compounds including phenolic compounds, tannins, and other color-imparting molecules that can affect the appearance and stability of beverages. In wine production specifically, PVPP is used to remove oxidized colors and excess tannins that may develop during aging or processing. The polymer acts as a binding agent that captures these impurities, which are then filtered out during subsequent processing steps. Beyond beverages, PVPP may be used in other clarification and finishing applications where removal of specific compounds is desired without altering the nutritional profile of the food.

## 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. "Polyvinyl Polypyrrolidone — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/polyvinyl-polypyrrolidone. Accessed 2026-05-20.