Dextrose monohydrate

Dextrose monohydrate (CAS 5996-10-1) is a monosaccharide sugar derived from starch hydrolysis, commercially known as glucose or corn sugar. It carries the molecular formula C6H12O6.H2O and is not assigned an E-number as a standalone additive in the EU, though it functions as a direct food ingredient under general food law.

In food and beverage manufacturing, dextrose monohydrate serves as a fermentable carbon source in yeast-driven fermentation, providing a readily metabolised substrate that controls sweetness intensity and browning reactions via the Maillard pathway. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is used as a diluent and tonicity agent in parenteral solutions and tablet formulations, where its high solubility and physiological compatibility are critical.

Dextrose monohydrate is available in food-grade, FCC, and Ph.Eur.-compliant grades, with granular and fine powder forms to suit different processing requirements. It is subject to REACH registration and supplied in 25 kg bags or bulk quantities. Procurement teams should confirm grade specification against intended application.