Glyceryl Stearate

Glyceryl Stearate (CAS 11099-07-3), also known as Glyceryl Monostearate (GMS), is a mono-ester of glycerol and stearic acid used commercially as an emulsifier, plasticizer, and moisturizing agent. It stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems across food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and polymer manufacturing. In personal care, it anchors emulsions in creams and lotions, improving texture and preventing phase separation.

Food manufacturers use GMS to extend the softness of baked goods, control fat crystallization in margarines, and improve the mouthfeel of ice cream. It is a versatile additive for texture and stability. Pharmaceutical formulators incorporate it as a tablet lubricant and controlled-release matrix component in solid dosage forms. It ensures consistent delivery and processing efficiency in manufacturing environments.

In plastics processing, it functions as an internal lubricant and anti-static agent in PVC and polyolefin compounds. This reduces friction during extrusion and molding, enhancing the final product quality. Glyceryl Stearate is supplied as white to off-white flakes, beads, or powder. Standard grades include food-grade meeting FCC specifications and pharmaceutical-grade meeting USP, BP, or Ph.Eur. standards.

Technical-grade options are also available for industrial polymer applications. Purity levels typically range from 40% monoglyceride content in standard grades to 90% or more in distilled or high-purity GMS variants.