Glycerol Monostearate Flakes

Whatsapp Order

Glycerol Monostearate Flakes is a white to off-white waxy flake form emulsifier composed of 40% monoglycerides of fatty acids, primarily stearic and palmitic acids, combined with other glycerides and esters. Derived mainly from vegetable oils, this food-grade emulsifier is widely utilized in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors for its multifunctional properties. GMS 40% flakes serve as effective emulsifiers, stabilizers, anti-caking agents, and texture enhancers, with excellent compatibility and versatility in formulations requiring semi-solid or solid fats.

 

Description

Glycerol Monostearate Flakes

Primary Uses 

  1. Food Industry
  • Emulsifying agent in margarine, spreads, and shortenings to blend fats and water, improving texture and consistency.
  • Acts as an anti-caking and anti-staling agent in baked goods, improving softness and extending shelf life.
  • Used in ice cream and dairy products to enhance creaminess, smoothness, and melt properties.
  • Functions as a stabilizer in confectionery for uniformity and improved mouthfeel.
  • Utilized in chocolate and coatings to improve gloss and texture by controlling fat crystallization.
  • Serves as a release agent in baking and candy manufacturing, preventing product sticking.
  • Added to instant mixes and beverages to stabilize oil-water emulsions and maintain shelf stability.
  1. Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals
  • Employed as an excipient in topical creams, ointments, and gels for enhanced emulsification and texture.
  • Functions as a tablet binder and dispersing agent in solid dosage forms.
  • Used in nutritional supplements to aid in the uniform distribution of fat-soluble vitamins and oils.
  1. Cosmetics & Personal Care
  • Emulsifier and thickener in creams, lotions, body butters, and hair conditioners.
  • Improves skin feel and spreadability, providing a smooth and non-greasy texture.
  • Acts as a stabilizer and opacifier in shampoos, liquid soaps, and sunscreen formulations.
  • Enhances the water resistance and longevity of makeup and sunscreen products.
  1. Industrial Applications
  • Used as an antistatic and lubricating agent in plastics, rubber, and packaging films.
  • Functions as a processing aid and internal lubricant in polymer extrusion.
  • Serves as a softening agent in textile processing and finishing.

 

Secondary Uses 

  1. Agriculture
  • Functions as an emulsifier in pesticide formulations to improve dispersion and efficacy.
  • Used in animal feed supplements for improved mixing and stability.
  1. Personal Hygiene Products
  • Added in deodorants, shaving creams, and cleansing bars for enhanced texture and stability.
  1. Paints & Coatings
  • Used as a dispersing and emulsifying agent to improve consistency and finish.
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
  1. Basic Identification Attributes 
  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): 1-Mono­stearoyl-rac-glycerol
  • Common/Trade Name: Glycerol Monostearate (GMS)
  • CAS Number: 31566-31-1 (commercial blends)
  • HS Code: 2915.90.70
  • Molecular Formula: C21H42O4 (pure monostearate)
  • Molecular Weight: ~358.56 g/mol
  • Synonyms: 
    • Glyceryl monostearate
    • GMS 40
    • Monostearin
    • E471 (food additive)
    • Octadecanoic acid monoglyceride
  1. Physical & Chemical Properties 
  • Physical State: Waxy flakes
  • Color & Odor: White to off-white; faint fatty odor
  • Purity: Approx. 40% monoglycerides content
  • Melting Point: 55–65 °C
  • Solubility: 
    • Insoluble in water
    • Soluble in hot ethanol, oils, and fats
  • pH (1% dispersion): 6–8
  • HLB Value: 3.8–5.6 (oil-in-water emulsifier)
  1. Safety & Hazard Attributes 
  • GHS Classification: Not hazardous
  • NFPA Ratings: Health 0, Flammability 1, Reactivity 0
  • Toxicity: Non-toxic and Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)
  • Irritation: Mild skin or eye irritant at high concentrations
  1. Storage & Handling Attributes 
  • Container Type: Multi-wall paper bags with polyethylene liner or fiber drums
  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area, away from moisture and heat
  • Shelf Life: Up to 24 months under recommended conditions
  • Handling Notes: Avoid dust formation; keep container tightly closed
  1. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes 
  • Food Grade: Complies with FDA GRAS, EU E471, JECFA standards
  • Pharmaceutical Grade: USP/NF grades available
  • REACH Registered: Yes
  • Halal and Kosher: Certificates available depending on supplier
  1. Environmental & Health Impact 
  • Biodegradability: Easily biodegradable
  • Ecotoxicity: Low environmental toxicity
  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected
  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: No evidence of carcinogenic or mutagenic effects
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
  1. Safety Handling Precautions
  • PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, safety goggles
  • Handling Guidelines: Avoid inhalation of dust, avoid skin and eye contact
  • Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; avoid eating or drinking during handling

 

  1. First Aid Measures
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; consult a physician if symptoms persist
  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
  • Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if large quantities ingested

 

  1. Firefighting Measures
  • Fire Hazards: Combustible solid at high temperature
  • Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, CO₂
  • Combustion Products: Carbon oxides and fatty acid fumes
  • Firefighter PPE: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing