E1203: Polyvinyl Alcohol
Main role: film coating
Also listed as: PVA, PVOH
What is E1203 (Polyvinyl Alcohol)?
Polyvinyl alcohol is a specified film-forming polymer used in limited food applications such as coatings for supplements. It is distinct from polyvinyl acetate despite the similar abbreviated names.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is film coating. A carrier helps incorporate another ingredient, while a processing ingredient may support a manufacturing step or coating. The final declaration and exposure depend on the application and the labeling rules in the relevant market.
Food and formulation examples
- Food supplement coatings
- Specified edible-film preparations
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E1203, E 1203, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include PVA, PVOH. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The abbreviation PVA is used for different polymers in everyday language. Use the full name polyvinyl alcohol and the food-grade specification when identifying E1203.
Is E1203 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E1203 as Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.