Glycerol monostearate

Glycerol monostearate (GMS), also known as monoglyceride, is a white, odorless, and tasteless flaky powder that is commonly used as an emulsifier in foods. 

It is a monoglyceride, which means that it is a molecule that contains one glycerol molecule and one fatty acid molecule. The fatty acid in GMS is typically stearic acid, which is a saturated fat.

GMS is used in a variety of foods to help emulsify fats and oils. This means that it helps to evenly distribute the fats and oils throughout the food, which can improve the texture and prevent separation. GMS is also used as a thickening agent, anti-caking agent, and preservative

Some common uses of GMS in foods include:

• Ice cream: GMS is used to help prevent ice cream from becoming too hard or too soft.
• Whipped cream: GMS is used to help keep whipped cream stable and prevent it from collapsing.
• Bread: GMS is used to help keep bread soft and moist.
• Margarine: GMS is used to help margarine spread evenly.
• Candy: GMS is used to help candy coatings smooth and shiny.

GMS is generally considered safe for consumption. However, some people may experience stomach upset or other digestive problems after eating foods that contain GMS. If you are concerned about the safety of GMS, you can talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.

Here are some of the benefits of using GMS in foods:

• Improves texture and mouthfeel
• Prevents separation of fats and oils
• Thickens foods
• Prevents caking
• Extends shelf life

Here are some of the potential drawbacks of using GMS in foods:

May cause digestive problems in some people

May not be suitable for people with certain allergies or intolerances

Overall, GMS is a safe and versatile food additive that can be used to improve the texture, consistency, and shelf life of a variety of foods.