Glycerol.

Glycerol, a sugar alcohol that is available under the name glycerin, is a remarkably versatile non-toxic chemical compound. It is used in a wide variety of foods as both a sweetener and a preservative; in sports drinks to treat dehydration; in skin lotions; in toothpaste and mouthwash; and in drugs that treat a wide range of ailments, including constipation, glaucoma, heart arrhythmia, and angina. In addition, it can be used to produce explosives (nitroglycerine), hard enamel lacquer, automobile antifreeze, exterior house paint, and non-irritating bath soap. It is a critical element in the freezing immersion bath used to preserve red blood cells and sperm in donor banks. Glycerol is found in natural fats and oils, and is processed synthetically as a food additive and diet supplement. Natural glycerol has no color and has no odor, but it is glycerol’s gummy stickiness and its heavy sweet taste that most distinguishes it.