The name glycerine comes from two notable properties of glycerol: its sweet taste and its high viscosity. It is derived from the Greek word glykys (sweet) and the Latin word cera (wax).

Photo for illustration only; packaging may vary depending on current stock availability.

Pack size: 60 g

Pure, anhydrous glycerol (also known as glycerine) is a hygroscopic, colourless, transparent and very thick liquid with no strong odour and a mildly sweet taste. It is an important organic compound and is found mainly in vegetable fats. Today, most glycerol is produced as a by-product of industrial processing (re-esterification) of rapeseed oil.

Density (i.e. the weight of 1 litre) is approx. 1.20 kg.

Uses of pure, anhydrous glycerol: In cosmetics as an ingredient in moisturising creams and soaps, as a humectant in toothpastes, in plastics manufacturing as a plasticiser, in pharmaceutical production, in various pastes and dyes, in e-cigarette liquids, and more.

In the food industry it is used as an additive to adjust beverages and lower-quality wines, as a sweetener (e.g. in whipped creams), as a softener in jellies, chewing gums and other confectionery, etc. As a food additive it is labelled E422.

Important note: This glycerol was not bottled for food use.

Making a disinfectant solution with peroxide:

Ingredients for 1 litre of solution:

830 ml alcohol 86–96% or 750 ml isopropyl alcohol.

42 ml 3% hydrogen peroxide (not necessary for viral illnesses; it acts mainly on bacteria).

18 ml 99.5% glycerine (glycerol) – it can also additionally replace the 42 ml of peroxide, softens the solution’s effect and increases skin hydration.

110 ml water (when using ethanol) or 192 ml (when using isopropyl alcohol).

Mix well or shake thoroughly in a container.

Ingredient notes:

ALCOHOL 86–96% (ethanol) – you can use isopropyl alcohol instead of ethanol.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE 3% (H2O2) – this low concentration does not act against viruses, but helps remove spores and bacteria. Do not add more, as it could irritate or damage the skin. It is therefore not essential for viruses and can be replaced with glycerol in the mixture for a gentler feel.

GLYCEROL 99.5% – acts as a humectant for hands and a thickener for the solution. It can be added up to max. 100 g/l for a moisturising effect. Above 10% content (100 g per 1 litre) in a solution, it may dry the skin.

WATER – distilled water is preferred, but clean tap water is sufficient.

ADDITIONAL SUBSTANCES AND FRAGRANCES – not recommended. Fragrances or colourants may cause unwanted reactions, including allergies, and can reduce the effectiveness of the mixture.

Simple disinfectant recipe without peroxide (not required for viral illnesses):

Ingredients for 1 litre of hand and surface disinfectant:

830 ml technical alcohol 86–96%

60 ml 99.5% glycerine

110 ml clean tap water

Mix well or shake thoroughly in a container.

Pure, anhydrous glycerol 99.5% has a stabilising effect on a product if it is dried to a maximum of 25% moisture and stored cool (up to 10 °C). If the mixture contains, for example, at least 5% salt or real garlic, it can last without mould (not wrapped in PVC) in an airy place for approx. 30–60 days. Its biggest advantage, however, is that it can “soften” a product even when partially dried, keeping it slightly elastic while still very firm—yet it can be pierced with a needle or easily drilled.

Safety precautions: Pure, anhydrous glycerol is mildly toxic in large doses. It may cause headaches, stomach upset and vomiting. Long-term exposure to higher doses may even cause liver damage.

Lowest toxic dose of pure glycerine taken orally in humans is 1.5 g/kg of body weight. This means an 80 kg person would have to deliberately ingest at least 120 g (100 ml) of pure 99.5% glycerol at once for symptoms of poisoning to occur. Glycerine draws moisture from the skin and can dry it out, so work with glycerol while wearing gloves. If spilled on the skin, wash hands thoroughly with water and treat with a suitable moisturising cream. In case of accidental ingestion of a larger amount (see lowest toxic dose), drink milk and induce vomiting, or seek medical attention.

Storage and use-by: Keep glycerine out of reach of children! Do not store together with food. In tightly closed bottles, use preferably within 12 months of purchase.

FAQs

Is glycerol the same as glycerine?
Yes—glycerol and glycerine are commonly used names for the same substance. This pack contains pure anhydrous glycerol 99.5%.

Can I use glycerine in cosmetics and soaps?
Yes. Glycerine is widely used as a humectant in creams, lotions and soaps to help retain moisture and improve skin feel.

Is this glycerine suitable for food or baking?
No. Glycerol was not bottled for food use, even though food-grade glycerine (E422) exists on the market.

Why does glycerine sometimes feel drying on skin?
Glycerine is hygroscopic and can draw moisture; at higher concentrations it may contribute to dryness. Wearing gloves and using a moisturiser afterwards is recommended.

What is the water content?
Maximum water content is 0.5%, which is why it is described as anhydrous.

How should I store glycerol (glycerine)?
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and keep the container tightly closed.

Store in a cool, dry place and protect from direct sunlight.