Glucono Delta Lactone

Glucono Delta Lactone (CAS 15892-28-1), or GDL, is a naturally derived cyclic ester of gluconic acid used as a slow-release acidulant in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Where is Glucono Delta Lactone used?

• Food manufacturing: sets tofu and fresh cheeses by triggering protein coagulation through gradual acidification, giving processors control over texture and yield
• Meat processing: accelerates fermentation and improves color stability in cured products such as salami and frankfurters
• Baking: leavening acid with sodium bicarbonate in dry mixes where reaction timing must be delayed until baking
• In tablets and effervescent systems it functions as a pH modifier and excipient.

Good to know: Unlike mineral acids, it hydrolyzes gradually in aqueous environments, enabling controlled pH reduction without sharp acidic shock. Food-grade material commonly meets FCC and E575 standards; pharmaceutical-grade material meeting BP or Ph. Eur. specifications is available for regulated manufacturing.