What is glycerol monostearate? What can it do?

Glyceryl monostearate (GMS) is a multifunctional and cross-disciplinary "industrial all-in-one". With its emulsifying, stabilizing, and lubricating properties, it is widely used in food, cosmetics, medicine, and industrial manufacturing. Its characteristics of high safety and controllable cost make it an indispensable additive in modern formula design. When making a selection, it is necessary to strictly match the purity and certification requirements according to the application (such as food grade, or pharmaceutical grade) to ensure the best compliance and performance.

Glycerol monostearate (GMS) has different standards that can be applied in various industries. For instance, there are approximately three purity levels of GMS: industrial grade 40% to 60%, food grade ≥90%, and pharmaceutical grade ≥95%. The industrial grade is mostly used in low-cost application scenarios such as plastic lubrication and textile auxiliaries, and there are many impurities. There may be residues of heavy metals. Food-grade ones that meet food safety standards can be used in products such as ice cream and baked goods. In addition, strict control over heavy metals and microbial standards is also required. Apart from these two levels, the highest one is the pharmaceutical grade, which requires high purity, low pyrogenicity, and compliance with the sterility requirements of the pharmacopeia. The higher the purity, the more backward compatible it is. The lower the purity, the fewer industries you can choose from. Of course, this is also directly related to the product value and amount. Choosing the level that best suits your product can maximize your benefits. If you don't know which level your desired product is most suitable for, you can consult us and we will give you the best advice.