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Sweeteners & Food Additives

Gluconic acid

CAS: 526-95-4

Overview

Gluconic acid ( CAS 526-95-4 ), also identified as E574 in food additive classifications, is a mild organic acid produced by the oxidation of glucose. It functions primarily as a chelating agent, acidulant, and pH buffer across food, pharmaceutical, industrial, and personal care markets.

In water treatment, it sequesters calcium, magnesium, and iron ions to prevent scale formation and improve the performance of cleaning and concrete admixture formulations. Food and beverage manufacturers use it as an acidulant where a smooth, non-astringent sourness is required.

This is particularly useful in dairy products, baked goods, and mineral-fortified drinks. Pharmaceutical formulators rely on it to produce mineral gluconate salts, where controlled bioavailability of calcium, iron, or zinc is a formulation priority.

In personal care, it acts as a chelating agent and mild exfoliant in rinse-off and leave-on skin formulations targeting sensitive skin. Gluconic acid is supplied as a 50% aqueous solution, which is the dominant commercial form for industrial and food-grade applications.

Solid forms are available but less common in bulk trade. Grades include food-grade ( FCC ), pharmaceutical-grade ( USP ), and technical-grade to meet the sourcing requirements of different regulated markets.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point131 °C
Boiling Point102 °C
Density1.24 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Appearanceclear yellow to brownish-yellow solution
ColorWhite to light yellow
Odorcommercial 50 aq. soln. lt. amber, faint odor of vinegar
FormCrystalline Powder or Crystals
Water SolubilitySoluble in water.
Refractive Index1.4161
pH2.2 (20°C, 500g/L in H2O)
Log P-2.116 (est)

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29181600
Storage Class10 - Combustible liquids

Other Names

Maltonate | Glyconate | GCO | Pentahydroxycaproic acid | Maltonic acid | Hexonic acid | Glyconic acid | Glycogenic acid | E574

Related Products

Chemical Properties

CAS Number
526-95-4
EC Number
208-401-4
Mol. Weight
196.16
HS Code
29181600

Industries

Documentation