Tristearin

Tristearin (CAS 555-43-1) is a naturally occurring triglyceride composed of three stearic acid chains esterified to a glycerol backbone, also known commercially as stearin or trioctadecanoin. It is derived primarily from animal fats or vegetable sources such as shea and palm, and carries no assigned E-code under EU food additive regulations.

In pharmaceutical tablet manufacturing, tristearin functions as a lubricating agent by reducing friction between the tablet mass and die walls during compression, improving ejection consistency. In cosmetic emulsions, it stabilises oil-in-water systems by increasing interfacial viscosity and slowing droplet coalescence, contributing to long-term formulation stability.

Tristearin is available in food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade forms, with compliance to Ph.Eur. and FCC monographs depending on application. It is fully registered under REACH and supplied across Europe in 25 kg bags or fibre drums. Kosher and Halal certified material is available from select vegetable-origin sources.