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Send EmailLactic Acid Esters of Mono and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids, Lacto Glycerides, Lactylated Mono and Diglycerides, E472b, 977051-31-2
E472b – LACTIC ACID ESTERS OF MONO- AND DIGLYCERIDES OF FATTY ACIDS
CAS Number: 977051-31-2
EC Number (EINECS): Not registered (polymeric mixture)
Molecular Formula: Variable
Molecular Weight: ~350-700 g/mol
E Number: E472b
1. IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids |
| Other Names (Turkish) | Laktik Asit Esterleri, Yağ Asidi Laktik Asit Mono ve Digliserit Esterleri, Laktik Asit Gliseritleri, Mono ve Digliserit Laktat Esterleri |
| Other Names (English) | Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides, Lacto Glycerides, Lactic Acid Mono and Diglyceride Esters |
| Chemical Class | Non-ionic, amphiphilic emulsifier |
| CAS Number | 977051-31-2 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | Not registered (polymeric mixture) |
| E Number | E472b |
| Appearance | Creamy white to pale yellow, waxy solid, beads, granules or powder |
| Odor | Slight, characteristic (lactic acid note) |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (waxy) or granules/powder |
| Raw Material Source | Vegetable or animal fatty acids (variable) |
2. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (waxy) or granules/powder |
| Appearance | Creamy white to pale yellow, waxy solid, beads, granules or powder |
| Odor | Slight, characteristic |
| Melting Point | 40 – 55 °C |
| Density (60°C) | ~0.95 – 1.05 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in Cold Water | Dispersible (opaque emulsion) |
| Solubility in Hot Water (>50°C) | Partially soluble / dispersible |
| Solubility in Vegetable Oils | Soluble (hot) |
| Solubility in Ethanol (96%) | Soluble (hot) |
| Solubility in Acetone | Soluble (hot) |
| Solubility in Chloroform | Soluble |
| HLB Value | ~6 – 9 |
| pH (1:10 dispersion) | 3.5 – 5.0 |
3. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Mono/diglyceride ester (non-ionic, amphiphilic) |
| Functional Groups | Ester (-COOR), hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH) |
| Chemical Structure | Glycerol + Fatty Acids + Lactic Acid |
| Stability | Stable under normal storage conditions; protect from light and moisture |
| Hygroscopicity | Medium (moisture-absorbing) |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong bases |
Chemical Structure (Schematic):
CH₂-O-CO-R (Fatty Acid)
CH-O-CO-R (Fatty Acid) or -OH
CH₂-O-CO-CH(OH)-CH₃ (Lactic Acid)
4. TECHNOLOGICAL MECHANISM OF ACTION
4.1. Emulsion Stabilization Mechanism
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Interfacial Activity | Amphiphilic structure (hydrophobic fatty acid chains + hydrophilic lactic acid groups) |
| Emulsion Type | Stabilizes oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions |
| HLB Value | ~6-9 (hydrophilic character dominant) |
| Mechanism | Adsorbs at oil-water interface, reduces interfacial tension; forms steric barrier preventing coalescence |
4.2. Texture Softening and Water Retention Capacity
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Effect | Increases water retention capacity in dough and products; provides soft texture |
| Mechanism | Lactic acid groups form hydrogen bonds with water molecules |
| Result | Softer texture, improved shelf life, reduced moisture loss |
4.3. Starch Retrogradation Retardation Mechanism
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Interaction Type | Adsorption on starch granule surface |
| Effect | Prevents recrystallization of amylose and amylopectin chains (retrogradation) |
| Result | Delayed staling; extended product shelf life |
4.4. Gluten Interaction Mechanism
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Interaction Type | Hydrogen bonds, ionic interactions |
| Target Molecules | Gluten proteins (gliadin and glutenin) |
| Effect | Softens gluten network; improves elasticity |
| Result | Improved gas retention capacity, better volume |
4.5. Anti-Microbial Side Effect
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Effect | Mild antimicrobial activity due to lactic acid content |
| Mechanism | pH lowering effect and bacteriostatic activity of lactic acid |
| Result | Delayed mold and yeast growth; extended shelf life |
4.6. Fat Crystallization Control Mechanism
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Interaction Type | Adsorption on triglyceride crystal growth surfaces |
| Effect | Promotes stabilization in β' form; prevents transition to undesirable β form |
| Result | Smooth texture, homogeneous crystallization |
5. FOOD APPLICATIONS AND DOSAGE
| Application | Function | Recommended Dosage | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bread and Bakery Products | Texture softening, volume, shelf life extension | 0.2-0.5% of flour weight | High |
| Cakes and Sponges | Moisture retention, texture softness, volume | 0.3-0.8% of flour weight | High |
| Frozen Dough Products | Freeze-thaw stability, prevention of water loss | 0.2-0.5% of flour weight | High |
| Whipped Creams | Foam stabilization, creaming | 0.1-0.3% of total product | High |
| Margarine and Spreads | Emulsion stabilization, smooth texture | 0.3-1.0% of total fat | High |
| Sauces and Dressings | Viscosity control, separation prevention | 0.1-0.3% of total product | High |
| Ice Cream and Dairy | Ice crystal control, mouthfeel, stability | 0.05-0.15% of mix | High |
| Confectionery | Crystallization control, texture improvement | 0.2-0.5% of total product | Medium |
| Instant Soups and Sauces | Oil-water stabilization, homogeneity | 0.1-0.3% of total product | High |
| Sausages and Meat Products | Fat-water stabilization, texture | 0.3-0.5% of total product | Medium |
6. NON-FOOD APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetics | Co-emulsifier in O/W creams and lotions, moisturizer | Medium |
| Pharmaceuticals (Topical) | Viscosity enhancer, stabilizer in creams and ointments | Medium |
| Agricultural Chemicals | Co-emulsifier in emulsifiable concentrate (EC) formulations | Medium |
| Bioplastics | Internal lubricant in starch-based bioplastics | Low |
7. COMPARISON WITH OTHER EMULSIFIERS
| Property | E472b | E472c | E472d | E472e (DATEM) | E477 (PGME) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HLB Value | ~6-9 | ~6-10 | ~6-10 | ~8-12 | ~2-4 |
| Emulsion Type | O/W | O/W | O/W | O/W | W/O |
| Gluten Interaction | Medium (Softener) | Medium | Medium | Very Strong | None |
| Water Retention Capacity | High | High | High | Medium | Low |
| Texture Softening | Excellent | Good | Good | Medium | Low |
| Anti-Microbial Effect | Yes (Lactic Acid) | Yes (Citric) | Yes (Tartaric) | Yes (Acetic) | None |
| Staling Retardation | Good | Good | Good | Medium | Weak |
| Temperature Resistance | >180°C | >180°C | >180°C | >200°C | >200°C |
| Acidic Medium Activity | High | High | High | Medium | Low |
| Primary Use | Soft texture, moisture retention, frozen dough | Antioxidant protection | Water retention | Industrial bread | Cakes, creams |
Key Distinctions:
-
E472b (Lactic Acid Esters): Stands out with excellent texture softening and moisture retention capacity. Lactic acid content provides mild antimicrobial effect. Ideal for cakes, pastries, frozen dough, and dairy products.
-
E472c (Citric Acid Esters): Provides metal chelation and antioxidant protection; extends shelf life of fat-containing products.
-
E472d (Tartaric Acid Esters): High water retention capacity; preferred in bread and cakes.
-
E472e (DATEM): Strongest gluten interaction; maximum volume and industrial bread.
-
E477 (PGME): Lipophilic; ideal for cakes, creams and W/O emulsions.
8. QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS (FOOD GRADE)
| Parameter | Specification (E472b) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Creamy white to pale yellow, waxy solid, beads, granules or powder |
| Identification (IR) | Positive (ester and lactic acid peaks) |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | ≤ 6.0 |
| Saponification Value (mg KOH/g) | 280 – 380 |
| Total Lactic Acid (molar) | ≥ 10.0% |
| Iodine Value | Variable (depends on fatty acid source) |
| Hydroxyl Value | 30 – 70 mg KOH/g |
| Free Glycerol | ≤ 1.0% |
| Free Lactic Acid | ≤ 0.5% |
| Water Content | ≤ 2.0% |
| Ash Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Melting Point | 40 – 55 °C |
| pH (1:10 dispersion) | 3.5 – 5.0 |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Residual Solvents | Meets ICH Q3C requirements |
9. MICROBIOLOGICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Aerobic Mesophilic Bacteria | ≤ 1,000 CFU/g |
| Yeast and Mold | ≤ 100 CFU/g |
| Salmonella spp. | Negative in 25g |
| Escherichia coli | Negative in 10g |
| Enterobacteriaceae | ≤ 10 CFU/g |
| Staphylococcus aureus | Negative in 1g |
| Bacillus cereus | ≤ 100 CFU/g |
| Coliform Bacteria | ≤ 10 CFU/g |
10. MANUFACTURING PROCESS
| Stage | Process | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glycerol + Fatty Acids → Mono/Diglycerides (E471) | 200-250°C, inert atmosphere (N₂), alkaline catalyst |
| 2 | Mono/Diglycerides + Lactic Acid → E472b | 100-150°C, vacuum, acid catalyst (p-TSA) |
| 3 | Neutralization | pH neutralization with alkaline solution |
| 4 | Washing | Washing with hot water (removal of excess acid and catalyst) |
| 5 | Drying | Vacuum drying (water content ≤ 2.0%) |
| 6 | Purification | Molecular distillation (to increase monoester ratio, optional) |
| 7 | Cooling and Forming | Cooling + Forming into beads/granules/powder |
11. STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool (15-25°C), dry, well-ventilated area |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed, original packaging (hygroscopic) |
| Protect From | Moisture (hygroscopic), direct sunlight (UV degradation), strong oxidizing agents |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (unopened original packaging, recommended conditions) |
| Stability Note | Color change (yellowing) may occur; protect from light and moisture |
12. PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kraft paper bag with PE inner liner | 25 kg |
| Plastic pail (powder/granules) | 20 kg |
| Big-Bag (bulk bag) | 500 – 1,000 kg |
| IBC Tank (molten, hot-fill) | 1,000 kg |
| Isotank (molten, hot-fill) | 20 – 25 tons |
13. SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION
GHS Classification (Bulk Powder)
| Hazard Class | Category |
|---|---|
| Acute Toxicity (Oral) | Category 4 (H302) |
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 (H315) |
| Eye Irritation | Category 2A (H319) |
Hazard Statements (H-Codes)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| H302 | Harmful if swallowed |
| H315 | Causes skin irritation |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation |
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/eye protection |
| P301+P312 | IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing |
Adverse Effects (Industrial Exposure)
| Type | Effects |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Respiratory tract irritation from dust |
| Skin Contact | Mild irritation (dermatitis with repeated exposure) |
| Eye Contact | Mechanical irritation, redness |
| Ingestion | Low toxicity; large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort |
First Aid Measures
| Exposure Route | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air. If respiratory irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention. |
14. CRITICAL COMPLIANCE DECLARATIONS
| Criterion | Description |
|---|---|
| Halal/Kosher Suitability | Depends on raw material source (vegetable/animal). Certification must be requested from supplier. |
| GMO Status | GMO-Free certification possible (depends on raw material source). |
| Nanoparticle Content | Does not contain (compliant with EU 1169/2011). |
| Allergen Warning | Does not contain gluten. However, if used in wheat-based products, must be labeled accordingly. |
| Vegan/Vegetarian | Depends on raw material source (suitable if vegetable-based). |
| Lactic Acid Source | May be synthetic (petrochemical) or fermentation-derived (natural, from carbohydrate fermentation by lactic acid bacteria). |
15. REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Approved as food additive E472b (Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008) |
| USA (FDA) | GRAS (21 CFR 184.1101) |
| JECFA (FAO/WHO) | Approved; ADI: 0-25 mg/kg body weight |
| Türkiye (Ministry of Agriculture) | Approved in Turkish Food Codex Food Additives Regulation |
| EU REACH | Generally exempt or limited registration obligation (food additive) |
| Türkiye KKDİK | Registration requirement must be evaluated; compliance declaration must be requested from supplier |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 (slight hazard to water) |
16. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not regulated (not dangerous goods) |
| Hazard Class | Not applicable |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG Code | Not regulated |
| IATA (Air) | Not regulated |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| Transport Temperature (Solid) | Ambient temperature |
| Transport Temperature (Molten) | 60-70°C (hot-fill) |
17. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Combustible solid (waxy nature) |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Water spray (mist), CO₂, dry chemical powder, alcohol-resistant foam |
| Specific Hazards | When heated, emits CO, CO₂, lactic acid derivatives |
| Decomposition Products | CO, CO₂, lactic acid derivatives |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Explosion Risk | Low dust explosion risk; avoid dust accumulation in air |
18. ACCIDENTAL SPILLAGE AND CLEANUP
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Nitrile gloves, protective goggles, dust mask (N95) |
| Cleaning Methods | Collect mechanically (sweep or spatula) |
| Important Warning | DO NOT WASH WITH WATER (may enter drainage, creates wastewater load) |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, soil, and surface waters |
| Waste Disposal | According to local regulations; incineration or landfilling at licensed facilities |
19. ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (ester bonds hydrolyze) |
| Aquatic Toxicity | Low to moderate toxicity |
| Bioaccumulation | Not expected (low log P) |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose according to local regulations (food additive waste) |
20. OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Turkish Names | Laktik Asit Esterleri, Yağ Asidi Laktik Asit Mono ve Digliserit Esterleri, Laktik Asit Gliseritleri, Mono ve Digliserit Laktat Esterleri |
| English Names | Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides, Lacto Glycerides, Lactic Acid Mono and Diglyceride Esters |
| E Number | E472b |
| CAS Number | 977051-31-2 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | Not registered |
| HLB Value | ~6-9 |
Trade Names (Partial List):
-
Grindsted® Lactate Esters
-
Palsgaard® 1000 series (lactate containing products)
-
ADM® E472b (generic)
-
Various generic suppliers
21. SELECTION GUIDE: E472B VS E472C VS E472D VS E472E (DATEM) VS E477 (PGME)
| Criterion | E472b | E472c | E472d | E472e (DATEM) | E477 (PGME) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Strength | Texture softening, moisture retention | Antioxidant protection | Water retention | Gluten strengthening | Foam stabilization |
| Best Application | Cakes, pastries, frozen dough, dairy | Margarines, oils | Bread, cakes | Industrial bread | Cakes, creams |
| HLB Value | ~6-9 | ~6-10 | ~6-10 | ~8-12 | ~2-4 |
| Emulsion Type | O/W | O/W | O/W | O/W | W/O |
| Texture Softening | Excellent | Good | Good | Medium | Low |
| Water Retention | High | High | High | Medium | Low |
| Gluten Interaction | Medium (Softener) | Medium | Medium | Very Strong | None |
| Anti-Microbial Effect | Yes (Lactic Acid) | Yes (Citric) | Yes (Tartaric) | Yes (Acetic) | None |
| Temperature Resistance | >180°C | >180°C | >180°C | >200°C | >200°C |
Selection Summary:
-
Soft texture, moisture retention, cake and pastry improvement → Choose E472b
-
Antioxidant protection, fat-containing products → Choose E472c
-
High water retention, bread and cake volume → Choose E472d
-
Maximum volume, strong gluten, industrial efficiency → Choose E472e (DATEM)
-
Cakes, creams, foam stabilization → Choose E477 (PGME)
22. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS
Product Summary
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | Lactic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472b) |
| CAS | 977051-31-2 |
| Appearance | Creamy white to pale yellow, waxy solid, beads, granules or powder |
| Melting Point | 40-55 °C |
| HLB Value | ~6-9 |
| Primary Sector | Food (bakery, dairy, sauces) |
Key Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Emulsifier Type | Non-ionic, amphiphilic (O/W) |
| HLB Value | ~6-9 (hydrophilic) |
| Primary Effect | Texture softening, moisture retention, excellent consistency |
| Secondary Effect | Emulsion stabilization, staling retardation, mild antimicrobial effect |
| Acidic Character | pH 3.5-5.0 (due to lactic acid content) |
Critical Warnings
| No | Warning |
|---|---|
| 1 | E472b has the best texture softening and moisture retention properties among E472 series emulsifiers. Ideal for cakes, pastries, frozen dough, and dairy products. |
| 2 | Lactic acid content provides a mild acidic taste and antimicrobial effect; delays mold and yeast growth, extending shelf life. |
| 3 | HLB ~6-9, ideal for O/W emulsions. Preferred in products requiring soft texture and moisture retention. |
| 4 | Do not confuse with E472d: E472b is for texture softening and cake/pastry improvement; E472d is for high water retention and bread volume. Both have similar HLB but different functional mechanisms. |
| 5 | Do not confuse with E472e (DATEM): DATEM provides maximum volume and gluten strengthening; E472b provides soft texture and moisture retention. |
| 6 | Dosage exceeding (>1.0%) may cause dough to become sticky and weak. Strictly adhere to recommended dosages (Section 5). |
| 7 | Lactic acid content provides acidic pH (3.5-5.0); suitable for acidic products (sauces, dressings). |
| 8 | For Halal/Kosher certification, request raw material source (vegetable/animal) and certificate from supplier. |
| 9 | Hygroscopic (moisture-absorbing). After opening, store in airtight containers in dry environments. |
| 10 | Thermal degradation begins above 180°C; for high-temperature processes, consider DATEM (E472e) alternative. |
| 11 | Approved in EU (E472b), USA (GRAS), JECFA (ADI: 0-25 mg/kg). Approved in Turkish Food Codex. |
| 12 | GMO-Free certification possible. Does not contain gluten; however, must be labeled if used in wheat-based products. |
IMPORTANT DECLARATION: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and has been prepared based on available technical data. The user is responsible for determining the product's suitability for their specific application and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. The source of fatty acids (vegetable or animal) affects Halal and Kosher certification! For complete safety, storage, use, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. The user is responsible for testing the product in their own processes and applications.
