Glycerol Monostearate
C₂₁H₄₂O₄ | CAS: 31566-31-1 | HS: 29157090
Product Description
Glycerol Monostearate (GMS) is a partial glycerol ester of stearic acid — the most widely used non-ionic emulsifier and stabiliser in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. As a food additive (E471), GMS prevents fat separation in margarine, shortenings, bread, and confectionery by stabilising oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions. In bakery, it acts as a dough conditioner and anti-staling agent by forming a complex with starch that retards retrogradation and extends shelf life. In cosmetics, GMS is an opacifier, emollient, and co-emulsifier in creams, lotions, and hair conditioners that produces the characteristic white, pearlescent appearance of many personal care products. In plastics, it is an antistatic agent and internal lubricant. MITCHEM supplies 40% (food) and 90%+ (distilled) GMS grades.
Applications by Industry
Stabilises oil-in-water emulsions in margarine, butter substitutes, salad dressings, ice cream, and confectionery; prevents fat bloom in chocolate and oil separation in peanut butter.
Forms a complex with amylose starch to retard retrogradation, extending the soft texture and shelf life of bread, cakes, and baked goods; also strengthens dough and improves volume.
Provides characteristic white, opaque appearance to creams, lotions, and hair conditioners; acts as a co-emulsifier with other surfactants to stabilise emulsions and add skin feel.
Internal antistatic agent for polyolefins, PVC, and polyesters that migrates to the surface to reduce surface resistivity and prevent static charge build-up in plastic films and mouldings.