Propylene glycol is a man-made alcohol used in many food products to add texture, taste, and thickness. This versatile additive is also found in medicines, toiletries, and cosmetics.

But while propylene glycol is non-toxic, DEG and EG are extremely harmful. When ingested, they lead to kidney failure and ultimately death without speedy treatment, pathologists say.

Justin D. Delorit, LeeAnn Racz, Evaluation of Activated Sludge for Biodegradation of Propylene Glycol as an Aircraft Deicing Fluid, Water Environment Research, Vol. 86, No. 4 (APRIL 2014), pp. 366-371 ...