| Description | Gluconolactone, also known as glucono-delta-lactone or GDL (gluconate), belongs to the class of organic compounds known as gluconolactones. These are polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) containing a gluconolactone molecule, which is characterized by a tetrahydropyran substituted by three hydroxyl groups, one ketone group, and one hydroxymethyl group. Gluconolactone is a lactone of D-gluconic acid. Gluconolactone can be produced by enzymatic oxidation of D-glucose via the enzyme glucose oxidase. It is a fundamental metabolite found in all organisms ranging from bacteria to plants to animals. Gluconolactone has metal chelating, moisturizing and antioxidant activities. Its ability in free radicals scavenging accounts for its antioxidant properties. Gluconolactone, is also used as a food additive with the E-number E575. In foods it is used as a sequestrant, an acidifier or a curing, pickling, or leavening agent. Gluconolactone is also used as a coagulant in tofu processing. Gluconolactone is widely used as a skin exfoliant in cosmetic products, where it is noted for its mild exfoliating and hydrating properties. Pure gluconolactone is a white odorless crystalline powder. It is pH-neutral, but hydrolyses in water to gluconic acid which is acidic, adding a tangy taste to foods. Gluconic acid has roughly a third of the sourness of citric acid. One gram of gluconolactone yields roughly the same amount of metabolic energy as one gram of sugar. |
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