Glycerol monostearate

Glycerol monostearate
IUPAC name 2,3-Dihydroxypropyl octadecanoate
Other names Glyceryl monostearate Glycerin monostearate Monostearin
Identifiers
Abbreviations	GMS
CAS number	123-94-4 Y
PubChem	24699
ChemSpider	23095 Y
KEGG	D01947 Y
ChEMBL	CHEMBL255696 Y
Jmol-3D images	Image 1
SMILES O=C(OCC(O)CO)CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC
InChI InChI=1S/C21H42O4/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-21(24)25-19-20(23)18-22/h20,22-23H,2-19H2,1H3 Y Key: VBICKXHEKHSIBG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Y InChI=1/C21H42O4/c1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-21(24)25-19-20(23)18-22/h20,22-23H,2-19H2,1H3 Key: VBICKXHEKHSIBG-UHFFFAOYAT
Properties
Molecular formula	C21H42O4
Molar mass	358.56 g mol−1
Appearance	White to yellowish solid
Density	0.97 g/cm3
Melting point	58 to 59 °C; 136 to 138 °F; 331 to 332 K
Boiling point	238 to 239 °C; 460 to 462 °F; 511 to 512 K
Solubility in water	Insoluble
Hazards
Flash point	230 °C (446 °F) (open cup)
Y (verify) (what is: Y/N?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Glycerol monostearate, commonly known as GMS, is an organic molecule used as an emulsifier.^[1] GMS is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting flaky powder that is hygroscopic. It is a glycerol ester of stearic acid. It occurs naturally in the body as a by-product of the breakdown of fats, and is also found in fatty foods.

GMS is a food additive used as a thickening, emulsifying, anti-caking, and preservative agent; an emulsifying agent for oils, waxes, and solvents; a protective coating for hygroscopic powders; a solidifier and control release agent in pharmaceuticals; and a resin lubricant. It is also used in cosmetics and hair care products.^[2]

GMS is largely used in baking preparations to add "body" to the food. It is responsible for giving ice cream and whipped cream its smooth texture. It is sometimes used as an anti-staling agent in bread.

Compendial status

• British Pharmacopoeia ^[3]

References