What it is
A polyethylene glycol ether of glyceryl cocoate, often marketed as a mild “natural” surfactant.
What it does
Mild surfactant and refatting agent in cleansers and shampoos.
Why it’s a concern
Despite its naturally derived origins, the ethoxylation step introduces potential 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide contamination. Finished product testing has repeatedly detected these impurities above levels the state of New York now regulates (2 ppm cap by 2023).
Also known as
PEG-7 cocoate
CAS numbers
68201-46-7
Commonly found in
shampoocleanser
Safer alternatives
- coco-glucoside
- decyl glucoside
- lauryl glucoside
Related chemical families
Sources
- NY State Law 2020 Chapter 120