functional family

Water & Humectants

Moisture · hydration · glycerol · sorbitol

Water and humectants control softness, stickiness, freshness, crystallization, microbial pressure, and how long a food feels moist after opening.

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How to read this family

Moisture systems are easy to miss because water looks ordinary. Humectants explain why some foods stay soft for weeks.

01Water
02Liquid Surface
03Moisture Retention
04Humectant
05H₂O Structure
WaterWaveMoisture lockGlycolH2O
CleanAdditional chemicals

Polyethylene glycol 8000

Polyethylene glycol 8000 (E1521) is listed as a food additive in the E-number system.

E1521

Common in processed foods, packaged snacks, ready meals, sauces.

WatchAdditional chemicals

Propylene glycol

Propylene glycol (E1520) is listed as a humectant and flavour solvent in the E-number system.

E1520

Common in processed foods, packaged snacks, ready meals, sauces.