Ingredient Information

Function

Glyceryl monostearate (GMS) is an organic molecule used as an emulsifier in food. A glycerol ester of stearic acid, it is a colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting flaky powder. Glyceryl monostearate occurs naturally in the body as a by-product of the breakdown of fats, and is often found in fatty foods. It is used heavily in baking products to add “body” to food. Glycerol monostearate is what gives ice cream and whipped cream a smooth texture, and brewers use it to obtain the “head” on unfinished beer. Glyceryl monostearate is often found in candies, breads, and cakes as a preservative, and in chocolate as an anti-crystallizing agent.

Other Use and Industries

Glycerol monostearate is also used in pharmaceuticals, hair care products, and cosmetics.

Health Effects

There is controversy surrounding the use of Glyceryl monostearate. Some studies show that it causes toxicity in certain organs. The FDA says that it is safe for human consumption, and authoritative organizations in many other countries back these findings. Glyceryl monostearate is composed mostly of fat, some reporting that it is entirely a saturated fat, which has led many countries and nutritional groups to advise that it not be consumed in large quantities.

Vegetarians and vegans may want to stay away from consuming Glyceryl monostearate, or check sources and labels carefully, as the majority of it is sourced from animal fat. Authoritative organizations have found Glyceryl monostearate to be questionable in a Halal diet, due to its fat source from animals.

Origins

Glyceryl monostearate is made up of stearic acid and glycerol. It is almost always sourced from animal fats, however occasionally it is obtained from vegetable sources.