# Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate

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**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 50980-84-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-04

## Summary

Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate (PGDB) is a synthetic flavoring compound derived from propylene glycol and butyric acid. It functions as a flavoring agent and adjuvant in food products, enhancing taste profiles in various applications.

## 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 Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate?

Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate (PGDB), identified by CAS Number 50980-84-2, is a synthetic ester compound created through the chemical combination of propylene glycol and butyric acid. It belongs to the class of glycol esters commonly used in the food industry. The compound is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odor profile that contributes to its utility as a flavoring agent.

## Common Uses

Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate is primarily used as a flavoring agent and flavor adjuvant in the food industry. Flavor adjuvants are substances that enhance, modify, or complement the taste characteristics of food products without necessarily providing flavor themselves. PGDB is incorporated into various food formulations where enhanced flavor delivery or taste modulation is desired. The compound's chemical structure allows it to function effectively in different food matrices, though specific commercial applications remain proprietary to individual manufacturers.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero reported adverse events associated with Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate consumption, and no food recalls have been issued related to this additive. This safety profile reflects the compound's apparent lack of acute toxicity in food applications at permitted usage levels.

The safety of propylene glycol derivatives has been established through extensive research on related compounds. Propylene glycol itself is widely recognized as safe by regulatory agencies worldwide. As an ester derivative, PGDB undergoes metabolic processing similar to other food-grade esters. The butyric acid component, when released through esterase activity in the digestive system, represents a naturally occurring short-chain fatty acid found in various foods.

However, it should be noted that PGDB does not hold FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status. This classification does not necessarily indicate a safety concern but rather reflects the regulatory pathway and available safety documentation for this particular compound. Many food additives function legally without GRAS designation through alternative regulatory approvals.

## Regulatory Status

Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate is not listed as GRAS by the FDA, meaning it does not have blanket approval for use in all food categories. Instead, it operates under specific regulatory frameworks and permitted usage guidelines established by food safety authorities. Its regulatory status may vary by jurisdiction and food application.

The compound's legal status in different countries depends on local food additive regulations. Manufacturers using PGDB must comply with specific regulations governing its use, concentration limits, and approved food categories in their respective markets. The absence of GRAS status does not prevent its use in appropriately regulated food applications.

## Key Studies

While PGDB-specific toxicological studies are limited in published literature, the safety profile of structurally similar propylene glycol esters has been documented. Research on propylene glycol and its derivatives generally demonstrates low toxicity in food applications. The ester bond structure suggests that PGDB would undergo standard ester hydrolysis in the gastrointestinal tract, producing propylene glycol and butyric acid—both recognized food components with established safety profiles.

The absence of FDA adverse event reports and recalls over years of use provides real-world evidence of safety at permitted usage levels. Continued safety monitoring through post-market surveillance remains standard regulatory practice for all food additives.

## 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. "Propyleneglycol Dibutyrate — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/propyleneglycol-dibutyrate. Accessed 2026-05-20.