Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone
A safe processing aid that clarifies beverages.
- Category
- Stabilisers
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone is the insoluble, cross-linked form of E1201 — it never dissolves into the drink.
How it is used in food
Binds the polyphenols that would make a beer go cloudy in the fridge, then is filtered away.
Commonly found in- Beer stabilisation
- Wine clarification
- Fruit juice
Health and safety
None known. Being insoluble, it is filtered out before the drink is bottled, and anything left cannot be absorbed.
Molecules this large are not absorbed from the gut, which is why they carry very low toxicity and why EFSA generally sets no numerical ADI for them.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E1202
Worth knowing
It is a processing aid rather than an ingredient — the whole point is that it leaves before the product does.
Conclusion
A safe processing aid that clarifies beverages.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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