Food Grade Glycerin
Glycerol also known as glycerol, is an organic chemical compound from the trihydric alcohols group. Its chemical formula is C₃H₈O₃, which means that the glycerol molecule consists of three carbon atoms, eight hydrogen atoms and three hydroxyl groups (-OH). These hydroxyl groups give glycerin its polar character, making it an excellent solvent for many substances such as alcohols and organic salts.
Glycerin’s safety has been reviewed and confirmed for use in food by health authorities around the world, including the World Health Organization, the European Union, and countries such as Australia, Canada and Japan. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also declared glycerin safe for consumption. In the US, it is considered to be generally safe according to the FDA although there may be some side effects when it is consumed in very large amounts.
Irasweet (Refined Glycerin (Food Grade), Min. purity of 99.5%):
Irasweet, also known as food-grade Glycerin, is a color-less and odorless liquid emulsifier meeting the international standard E422. It is widely used as a preservative, thickener, and solvent in various applications within the food industry.
Properties of Refined Food Grade Glycerin:
The unique properties of refined food grade glycerin make it an invaluable ingredient in various applications:
- Hydrophilic nature: Glycerin is highly hydrophilic, meaning it can attract and retain moisture from the air. This property makes it an excellent humectant and moisturizing agent in personal care and food products
- Sweetening agent with natural origin: With a naturally sweet taste, glycerin serves as a low-calorie sweetener and flavor enhancer. It is often used in diabetic-friendly food products and sugar-free formulations.
- Solubility: It is highly soluble in water and alcohol, making it a versatile carrier for other ingredients.
- Stability: Glycerin is chemically stable and does not react with most other ingredients, making it suitable for a wide range of formulations.
- Non-toxic and safe: Refined food grade glycerin is safe for consumption and use in personal care products, with minimal risk of adverse effects.
- Preservative: Its antimicrobial properties help extend the shelf life of various food products by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and mold.
- Thickening agent: Glycerin is used to improve the consistency and mouthfeel of sauces, dressings, and dairy products.
- Versatility: Due to its compatibility with various ingredients and formulations, Irasweet can be used in a wide range of food products.
Glycerol in Food Industries:
Glycerin helps preserve moisture, prevents sugar crystallization, and adds bulk, smoothness, softness, sweetness, and texture to a range of foods and beverages. The colorless nature of food grade glycerin is an indicator of its high purity. Any coloration in glycerin suggests the presence of impurities, which can affect its performance and suitability for various applications. The refining process removes these impurities, resulting in a clear, colorless product.
When we consume glycerin, it is readily and completely absorbed in the small intestine. Glycerin contains calories in the form of carbohydrate. Yet despite its being a carbohydrate source, glycerin does not significantly promote insulin secretion when it’s consumed which helps keep the body’s blood glucose levels lower than the levels produced by eating other types of carbohydrate, including sugars.
Food-grade glycerin is used in a variety of food and drink products, including various beverages, energy bars, pet foods, baby foods, cake, icings, soft candies, chewing gum, condiments, creams, diet foods, dried fruits, fondant, fudge, sauces, dairy products, chocolates and marshmallows. Food-grade glycerin is often used as a humectant (wetting agent), thickener, solvent, or sweetener to dairy products.
To purchase food grade glycerin (Irasweet) from Padideh Shimi Jam Company, please contact our sales experts.
References:
https://www.monarchchemicals.co.uk/
