Here is my opinion, which I am sure is in direct opposition to the views of the big shots running this forum.
1) VG and PG have in the past been contaminated (court cases failed to prove intentional wrong doing) and has caused grave harm to people.
2) Contaminated VG and PG have been found (and I'm not talking about the stupid FDA test) in products such as counterfeit toothpaste, and mouthwashes, and removed form the market.
3) VG and PG are manufactured in tanker truck sized lots, subdivided, and subdivided and repackaged, and etc.
4) Glycerin CAN BE purely from a vegetable source, animal fat source, and produced synthetically, with ALL the molecules being EXACTLY the same (per the chemistacal experts). Remember that, EXACTLY the same.
5) USP grade is a % requirement with the remainder unknown stuff.
6) Food grade (FCC Food Grade) can only come from USP grade.
7) A manufacturer can state that their Glycerin generally comes from vegetable sources (unless there is a supply issue, then they can substitute synthetic Glycerin, at their discretion). Remember it is EXACTLY the same.
8) If a company that deals with tanker truck size lots would like to save some bucks, would they be more likely to substitute Industrial Grade stuff into a shipment of :
A-Glycerin to be used to rub on cow butts?
B-Glycerin to be used to rub on baby butts?
C-Or Glycerin to be used to make candy and cake icing?
Which has the best chance of going unnoticed?
What, that can't do that, that would be illegal.
What you mean is, they shouldn't do that, again please.
I have tried Glycerin, from a manufacturer that stated "most likely all their Glycerin was from vegetable sources" and got sick to my stomach.
I am terribly sorry, but I won't even go to the feed store and try USP Cow .... Glycerin, even though it is EXACTLY the same. Sorry, the risk of a contaminated lot not intended for consumption, may not get recalled for something that would make it unfit for consumption. Even if it is EXACTLY the same this time, what about next time?
USP, fine, FCC food grade, that's me, Kosher (certified by a reputable and actively monitored organization, not one of those pencil whipping organizations) Certified Vegetable Glycerin is ALL I USE, PERIOD.
Sorry is this upsets anyone that feels differently, but $7 or $8 a pint is not too much for just a little comfort.
For you other folks the upset stomach will pass, don't sweat it because, remember it's
EXACTLY the same.
The Rocketman