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CAS no: 90-80-2
EC / List no: 202-016-5
Chemical formula: C6H10O6
Synonyms: D-Glucono-1,5-lactone; (3R,4S,5S,6R)-3,4,5-Trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-one; (3R,4S,5S,6R)-3,4,5-Trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-one; 3,4,5-Trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-one;D-(+)-Gluconic acid δ-lactone;D-Gluconic acid δ-lactone;GDL
D-Glucono-1,5-lactone, commonly known as Glucono Delta Lactone (GDL), is a naturally occurring organic compound derived from glucose. It is a cyclic ester of gluconic acid and is widely utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors. Typically produced through the aerobic fermentation of glucose using enzymes such as glucose oxidase, GDL appears as a white, odorless crystalline powder with a slightly sweet taste and excellent water solubility.
In aqueous solutions, GDL gradually hydrolyzes into gluconic acid, enabling a slow and controlled reduction of pH. This controlled-release acidification, combined with its chelating, stabilizing, and moisturizing properties, makes it a highly functional and versatile ingredient. As a result, GDL is extensively used as a tofu coagulant, leavening agent in bakery products, skincare ingredient, and industrial additive, offering a reliable and effective solution across a wide range of applications.
Key Properties of Glucono Delta Lactone
Molar Mass: 178.14 g/mol
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Solubility: Highly soluble in water; slightly soluble in alcohol
Density: ~1.6 g/cm³ (typical value)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling (~230°C estimated)
Melting Point: 153–160°C (decomposes)
Taste: Slightly sweet with mild acidity
pH Behavior: Gradually decreases pH through slow hydrolysis to gluconic acid
Odor: Odorless
GDL exists in equilibrium with gluconic acid in aqueous environments, and the rate of conversion depends on temperature, pH, and concentration.
Applications
1. Food Industry Applications
GDL is a multi-functional food additive (E575) widely used in food processing.
Key Functions:
Acidifier
Coagulant
Leavening agent
Sequestrant (chelating agent)
Preservative
pH control agent
Common Uses:
Tofu Production (Coagulant):
GDL is extensively used in tofu manufacturing due to its ability to slowly coagulate proteins, producing tofu with:
Smooth texture
Neutral flavor
High yield without protein loss
Bakery Products (Leavening Agent):
When combined with baking soda, GDL releases carbon dioxide gradually, improving:
Dough rise
Texture
Volume
Meat and Sausage Processing:
Used as a slow acidifier in fermented meats:
Enhances preservation
Improves color stability
Reduces microbial growth
Accelerates curing process
Dairy Products:
Applied in cheese and yogurt production to:
Control acidity
Improve texture
Stabilize proteins
Other Food Applications:
Sauces and dressings
Desserts and jellies
Canned foods
Seafood preservation
2. Cosmetics and Personal Care
Gluconolactone is classified as a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA), known for being gentler than traditional AHAs.
Benefits in Skincare:
Moisturizing (humectant effect)
Mild exfoliation
Antioxidant protection
Suitable for sensitive skin
Improves skin texture and hydration
Its multiple hydroxyl groups attract water, making it effective in:
Creams and lotions
Anti-aging formulations
Sensitive skin products
It is often combined with preservatives such as sodium benzoate to enhance product stability and antimicrobial effectiveness.
3. Pharmaceutical Applications
GDL is used in:
Tablet formulations (excellent compressibility)
Drug stabilization
Medical irrigation solutions (e.g., dissolution of urinary calculi in specific formulations)
It has shown low cytotoxicity and does not negatively affect drug bioavailability in many formulations.
4. Industrial Applications
In industrial processes, GDL functions as:
Chelating agent (binds metal ions)
Cleaning agent in industrial formulations
Metal surface treatment agent
Textile processing stabilizer
Cement additive (set retarder)
Its chelating ability helps prevent discoloration, scaling, and unwanted reactions.
Advantages of Using GDL
Controlled and gradual acidification
Mild taste compared to other acids
Non-toxic and biodegradable
Multifunctional across industries
Compatible with other additives and preservatives
Stable and easy to handle
How Does GDL Work? (Mechanism of Action)
When dissolved in water, GDL undergoes slow hydrolysis, converting into gluconic acid. This results in:
Gradual pH reduction
Mild acidification (less sour than citric acid)
Improved stability in formulations
This property makes GDL ideal for applications requiring controlled acid release, unlike fast-acting acidulants.
Safety and Regulatory Status
Approved food additive (E575)
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
Non-toxic and fully digestible
Suitable for vegan, halal, and kosher applications
