Glucono-Delta-Lactone
Also known as: E575, Gluconolactone, GDL, D-Gluconic acid delta-lactone
Glucono-delta-lactone is widely used and metabolized to gluconic acid and then to glucose. EFSA is conducting an ongoing re-evaluation of E574-E579 and the additive remains authorized; FDA permits it as a GRAS multipurpose ingredient under 21 CFR 184.
What it is
Glucono-delta-lactone (GDL), the cyclic ester of gluconic acid, which slowly hydrolyzes to gluconic acid in water.
Acidulant, sequestrant, and slow-acting acidifier; used as a coagulant for tofu and as a leavening acid in baked goods.
What regulators actually say
"Glucono delta-lactone (GDL) (C6H10O6, CAS Reg. No. 90-80-2) is the inner ester of D-gluconic acid... The ingredient is used as a leavening agent... an acidifier... a curing and pickling agent... a sequestrant."
"EFSA launched a call for technical and toxicological data for the re-evaluation of gluconic acid (E 574) and related food additives (E 575–579), as part of the ongoing re-evaluation programme of food additives authorised before 2009."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Affirmed GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1318 as a multipurpose food ingredient.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized in the EU; included in EFSA's ongoing re-evaluation of gluconic acid and related additives (E 574–579).
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