Glyceryl stearate citrate

Glyceryl stearate citrate (CAS 55840-13-6), also known as stearyl monoglyceridyl citrate or monostearin citrate, is a citric acid ester of glyceryl monostearate used as an emulsifier and stabilizer across food and personal care manufacturing. It combines the lipophilic character of stearic acid with the hydrophilic contribution of citrate, enabling stable oil-in-water and water-in-oil systems without synthetic co-emulsifiers.

In food manufacturing, it functions as an emulsifier and mild acidulant in fat-based systems such as margarines, shortenings, and processed dairy products, improving texture consistency and shelf stability. Bakery formulators use it to condition dough and extend crumb softness in breads and cakes by moderating fat crystal interactions. In personal care, it acts as an emulsifying agent in creams and lotions.

This ingredient supports uniform dispersion of oils and actives across a range of skin-feel profiles. It also appears in flavor delivery systems where its amphiphilic structure helps encapsulate and stabilize lipophilic flavor compounds. Glyceryl stearate citrate is typically supplied as a waxy solid, flake, or powder depending on the manufacturer's processing method. Food-grade and cosmetic-grade specifications are the most commercially available.

Purity and acid value parameters vary by supplier. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against relevant regional food additive regulations before procurement to ensure compliance with industry standards.