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 Point | 131 °C |
| Boiling Point | 102 °C |
| Density | 1.24 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Appearance | clear yellow to brownish-yellow solution |
| Color | White to light yellow |
| Odor | commercial 50 aq. soln. lt. amber, faint odor of vinegar |
| Form | Crystalline Powder or Crystals |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water. |
| Refractive Index | 1.4161 |
| pH | 2.2 (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 Code | 29181600 |
| Storage Class | 10 - Combustible liquids |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 526-95-4
- EC Number
- 208-401-4
- Mol. Weight
- 196.16
- HS Code
- 29181600
- Category
- Sweeteners & Food Additives