E475: Polyglycerol Esters of Fatty Acids
Main role: emulsifying and aeration
Also listed as: PGE, polyglycerol fatty-acid esters
What is E475 (Polyglycerol Esters of Fatty Acids)?
E475 combines polyglycerols with fatty acids. The resulting emulsifier mixture can support aeration, fat dispersion, and consistent texture in recipes containing several phases.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is emulsifying and aeration. Emulsifiers help ingredients mix or remain distributed. The recipe determines whether that means dispersing fat, improving dough handling, or controlling a coating. Their presence alone does not describe the food’s overall nutritional quality.
Food and formulation examples
- Cakes
- Whipped toppings
- Dessert mixes
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 E475, E 475, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include PGE, polyglycerol fatty-acid esters. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
PGE describes a family of ester preparations, not a single serving-size dose. The recipe and specific grade influence what the emulsifier does.
Is E475 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 E475 as Polyglycerol esters of fatty acids. 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.