Glyceryl Monostearate, Glycerin Monostearate, Glycerol Monostearate, GMS, GMS40, GMS60, GMS90, E471, 123-94-4

Glyceryl Monostearate, Glycerin Monostearate, Glycerol Monostearate, GMS, GMS40, GMS60, GMS90, E471, 123-94-4

GLYCERYL MONOSTEARATE (GMS, E471)

1. PRODUCT DEFINITION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

Note: Glyceryl Monostearate is a non-ionic, low HLB (3.6 – 4.2) emulsifier obtained by the esterification of glycerol and stearic acid. It tends to form water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. It is a versatile additive widely used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, thickener, and lubricant in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. It holds GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status with the FDA and is considered safe as a food additive.

2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

3. FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

• Emulsifier (W/O): Thanks to its low HLB value, it enables the formation and stabilization of water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions. It prevents the separation of oil and water phases in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations.

• Stabilizer and Thickener: Provides the desired creamy consistency and texture in products like ice cream, margarine, creams, and lotions; reduces the formation of ice crystals and maintains homogeneity throughout the shelf life.

• Emollient: Forms a protective, lipophilic barrier on the skin, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and imparting a soft, smooth skin feel.

• Lubricant and Mould Release Agent: Reduces friction as an internal lubricant in plastic and rubber processing, facilitates mould release, and provides antistatic properties.

• Controlled Release Agent: Used in pharmaceutical tablets and capsules within matrix systems that regulate the release rate of the drug in the body.

• Dough Softener and Volume Enhancer: Increases the gas-holding capacity of dough in bread and bakery products, resulting in softer, more voluminous products that stay fresh longer.

4. COMMERCIAL GRADING AND PRODUCT TYPES

5. SECTORAL APPLICATIONS AND SUITABILITY TABLE

6. ALTERNATIVE NAMES AND SYNONYMS

7. ALTERNATIVES AND COMPARISON

8. SAFETY, STORAGE, AND REGULATORY INFORMATION

• GHS Classification: Not classified as a hazardous substance or mixture.

• Food Additive (E471): Holds GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status with the FDA; permitted in the EU and Turkish Food Codex. Used under the quantum satis principle (as much as is sufficient according to good manufacturing practice) in most foods.

• Halal / Kosher / Vegan: Depends on the source. GMS produced from vegetable sources (palm, soy, rapeseed) can obtain halal, kosher, and vegan certification. Certification is required for animal-derived products.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool (<30 °C), dry, and well-ventilated area in tightly sealed, original packaging.

  • Protect from moisture, heat sources, and direct sunlight.

  • Store separately from strong oxidizing agents.

• Shelf Life: At least 24 months in original, sealed packaging under proper storage conditions.

• Packaging: Typically 25 kg kraft paper bags or cartons with PE inner liner.

9. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: What is the difference between GMS40, GMS60, and GMS90?
The number indicates the percentage of monoglyceride (pure glyceryl monostearate) in the product. GMS90 has the highest purity and the strongest emulsifying power, making it ideal for pharmaceutical and advanced cosmetic applications. GMS40 is more economical and sufficient for basic food and cosmetic applications. GMS60 is a versatile, balanced option.

Q2: Is GMS soluble in water?
No, GMS is insoluble in water. However, it can be dispersed in hot water (>60 °C) to form an emulsion. Phase separation may occur upon cooling without a co-emulsifier.

Q3: Why does GMS have a low HLB value?
GMS has a long hydrophobic fatty acid chain (stearic acid, C18) and a small hydrophilic head portion with only two free hydroxyl groups. The dominance of the hydrophobic part gives it a low HLB value of 3.6-4.2, making it particularly suitable for water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions.

Q4: Can GMS be used in vegan products?
Yes, if it is produced from vegetable-derived stearic acid (e.g., palm oil, soybean oil), it can be used in vegan products. A plant-source certificate should be requested from the supplier.

Q5: Is E471 the same as pure GMS?
E471 is a food additive code that describes the general mixture of mono- and diglycerides of edible fatty acids. Pure GMS (like GMS90) is a specific form of this mixture with a high monoglyceride content. Not every E471 is GMS; E471 represents a broader mixture.

10. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE