Glycerol monostearate

Glycerol monostearate

Names
IUPAC name 2,3-Dihydroxypropyl octadecanoate
Other names Glyceryl monostearate Glycerin monostearate Monostearin
Identifiers
Abbreviations	GMS
CAS Registry Number	123-94-4 Y
ChEMBL	ChEMBL255696 Y
ChemSpider	23095 Y
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
Jmol-3D images	Image
KEGG	D01947 Y
PubChem	24699
SMILES O=C(OCC(O)CO)CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC
Properties
Molecular formula	C21H42O4
Molar mass	358.56 g·mol−1
Appearance	White to yellowish solid
Density	0.97 g/cm3
Melting point	58 °C (136 °F; 331 K)
Boiling point	238 °C (460 °F; 511 K)
Solubility in water	Insoluble
Hazards
Flash point	230 °C (446 °F) (open cup)
Except where noted otherwise, data is given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
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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