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Triethylene glycol

(TEG)

Triethylene glycol is a humectant, filler additive and used in the reconstituted sheet making process. It has an oral toxicity. Philip Morris concluded in 1954 that the use of triethylene glycol would be without risk to the health of the consumer. TEG can also be used as a solvent to incorporate propyl paraben (preservative). TEG serves as a plasticizer or softener. Philip Morris used .9% TEG in the reconstituted sheet making process according to a 1984 memo. Triethylene glycol is combined with a basic (e.g., amine, ethanolamine or nicotine) to increase pH. There was industry discussion in the early 80’s to obtain GRAS status for TEG. According to an RJR memo dated 1990 TEG had been approved by Scientific Affairs for use in cigarette products. Pyrolytic degradation of TEG produces 1,4 Dioxane. Industry studies/results include the following: Philip Morris tests in 1956 stated that smokers preferred the brands containing the glycerine treated filler versus a TEG treated filler. Cigarettes with triethylene glycol filler were strong and burnt panelists’ tongues. In 1958 Philip Morris states a TEG-casing produces a higher level of tars then a glycerine-casing. In addition, 1958 Philip Morris documents state that TEG will decompose to form formaldehyde and that there is a need to stabilize TEG to stop appearing in mainstream smoke. In 1958 Philip Morris’ judges found cigarettes having propylene glycol and TEG to be milder as compared with those using glycerine. Recommended to submit propylene glycol plasticized cigarettes for consumer tests since these cigarettes have been shown to deliver fewer tars. Philip Morris conducted comparison test in 1986 for the replacement of a mix of the humectants PG and glycerine versus the humectant TEG in RCB and comparing the physical performance of RL and RCB with new humectants (propylene glycol and glycerine) replacing the old humectant TEG. Concludes the test cigarettes with a mix of PG (3%) and glycerin (4%) was rated subjectively equivalent to the control with 4.5% TEG.


Synonyms

   triethylene glycol
   TEG
   Tobacco TEG