Many everyday items contain petroleum-derived ingredients, from foods to beauty products. Here are 10 surprising examples:
#### 1. Chocolate Chocolate coatings often use food-grade paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, to achieve a glossy sheen and maintain solidity at higher temperatures.
#### 2. Toothpaste Toothpaste may contain polyethylene glycol for flavoring and texture, and poloxamer 407, a petroleum derivative, to help it dissolve in water.
#### 3. Perfume Many fragrances use petroleum-derived oils instead of natural essential oils. These synthetic oils provide long-lasting scents and a variety of aromas.
#### 4. Paint Plastic polymers, derived from oil, are added to paint to enhance durability and water resistance. These plastics also allow for a broader range of colors.
#### 5. Pills Pills are often coated in plastic to make them easier to swallow and to prevent sticking. These synthetic coatings also extend the shelf life of the active ingredients.
#### 6. Vanilla Ice Cream Petroleum-derived synthetic oils are used in flavorings like vanilla and almond. These synthetic compounds provide consistent flavors and are cost-effective.
#### 7. Petroleum Jelly Petroleum jelly, widely used for skin protection, is derived from refined and purified components of crude oil.
#### 8. Laxatives Laxatives often contain polyethylene glycol, a petroleum product that helps draw water into the colon. Some laxatives also use mineral oil, another petroleum derivative.
#### 9. Shaving Cream Shaving cream contains isopentane, derived from crude oil, to break down skin oils and lift hairs for easier shaving. It also often includes polyethylene glycol for a protective barrier.
#### 10. Air Fresheners Air fresheners use petroleum-derived oils to create long-lasting and consistent scents, mimicking natural fragrances and releasing gradually over time.
