Polyglutamic acid

Polyglutamic acid (CAS 25513-46-6), commonly abbreviated as PLG, is a naturally derived biopolymer produced through microbial fermentation of glutamic acid.

Where is Polyglutamic acid used?

• Cosmetics: humectant and rheology modifier
• Skincare: moisture-retention active in serums, creams and hydrating masks
• Food: texture modifier and water-binding agent
• Pharmaceuticals: biodegradable carrier matrix for controlled-release systems and peptide conjugation
• Biotechnology: scaffold material in cell culture media and chelating agent in fermentation process optimisation
• It is also used in products where clean-label, fermentation-derived ingredients are preferred.

Good to know: In skincare and cosmetic formulations, PLG outperforms hyaluronic acid in moisture retention capacity. Pharmaceutical and research-grade material is available where documented purity and batch traceability are required.

Commercial specifications

• Varying concentrations
• Cosmetic-grade and food-grade specifications most commercially prevalent
• Molecular weight ranges (low, medium, high) specified to match application viscosity and absorption requirements