E476: Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate
Main role: controlling chocolate flow
Also listed as: PGPR
What is E476 (Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate)?
PGPR is an emulsifier made from polyglycerol and condensed castor-oil fatty acids. It is used in chocolate and other suitable applications to change flow and reduce resistance during processing.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is controlling chocolate flow. 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
- Chocolate
- Chocolate coatings
- Certain fat-based emulsions
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 E476, E 476, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include PGPR. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
PGPR and castor oil have different compositions and uses. The ingredient's manufacturing origin does not make a chocolate serving equivalent to a dose of castor oil.
Is E476 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 E476 as Polyglycerol polyricinoleate. 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.