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Glyceryl Stearate

Glyceryl Stearate

Monoglyceride

Glyceryl Stearate

Other Name(s):

Glyceryl Monostearate; Glyceryl Distearate; Octadecanoic Acid; CAS# 31566-31-1; CAS# 1323-83-7; E471

Glyceryl Stearate can be made from a large number of different raw materials. The most common source today is palm kernel oil, but it can also be derived from animal fats, rapeseed oil (aka canola), soya bean oil, sunflower seed oil, and even from petrochemicals.

Is Glyceryl Stearate Faithful to Nature?

Yes.

Glyceryl Stearate can be sourced from sustainable, renewable plant materials, grown ethically and made using eco-friendly methods. We investigate every instance of glyceryl stearate used in the products on offer at Faithful to Nature.

Benefits: Why is Glyceryl Stearate Used?

Moisturiser

Glyceryl Stearate leaves skin moisturised and rehydrated.

Improves Texture

Glyceryl Stearate enhances the texture and glide of lotions and creams.

Emulsifier

Glyceryl Stearate helps water and oil based ingredients blend together.

Pearliser

Glyceryl Stearate when combines with glycerin, can be used to pearlise shower gel, shampoo and hand wash.

On the Shelf: Which Products Use Glyceryl Stearate?

Glyceryl Stearate enjoys extensive use in cosmetic formulations from moisturisers, lipsticks, compact powders, mascaras but is also used in mass produced, factory foods like yoghurts and icecreams.

Production: How is Glyceryl Stearate Made?

Glyceryl Stearate is made simply by combining glycerine and stearic acid. Both glycerine and stearic acid are most commonly made/isolated as a byproduct of soapmaking (the saponification reaction) from vegetable oils.

Interesting Fact: Glyceryl Stearate

Vegans and vegetarians may want to avoid glyceryl stearates in cosmetics (and E471 in foods) unless it has been independently audited by an accredited third-party organisation like the Vegan Society. You can easily spot their logo - it’s a green sunflower. Similarly, people observing a strict Halal or Kosher diet may wish to avoid it unless it’s certified by an accredited third-party.

Glyceryl stearate is often added to factory mass-produced food items like cakes and ice cream, to prevent them from drying out or forming ice crystals respectively. It will be listed under the ingredients as E471.

Notice: The information provided here is not intended as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.