Mono- And Di-glycerides Of Fatty Acids

Mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids are a mixture of mono- and diglycerides, which are fats. They are made by combining glycerol with fatty acids, which can come from animal or vegetable sources. This process, called esterification, creates a compound that can mix with both oil and water.

Manufacturers add mono- and diglycerides to foods as emulsifiers. Emulsifiers help to blend ingredients that normally don't mix well, like oil and water. They are often found in baked goods, ice cream, margarine, and confectionery to improve texture and stability.

Mono- and diglycerides are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. They are common components of the diet, as they are also found naturally in foods. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated mono- and diglycerides, and they are permitted for use in many countries. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.