Glucono Delta Lactone
Also known as: Glucono delta-lactone, GDL, Gluconolactone
Overview
Glucono delta-lactone (GDL) is a naturally occurring compound derived from glucose, primarily utilized as a food additive. It functions as a curing and pickling agent, leavening agent, pH control agent, and sequestrant in food processing. GDL is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in human food. Research on GDL is largely focused on its applications in food science, particularly its ability to modify starch properties, influencing digestion and food texture. Toxicological studies indicate low toxicity, supporting its safety in food products. However, there is limited research on its direct health benefits or its use as a dietary supplement. Most evidence comes from toxicological and food science research rather than clinical trials assessing human health benefits.
Benefits
There is limited direct evidence of health benefits from peer-reviewed clinical trials. GDL is used to modify starch properties, which could indirectly affect digestion or food texture. However, no specific secondary health benefits are well-documented in peer-reviewed literature. Due to the lack of clinical trials, quantifiable effect sizes and clinical significance are not available. The available research primarily focuses on its role as a food additive rather than a dietary supplement.
How it works
GDL primarily functions as an acidifier, influencing pH levels in food products. Its effects on starch modification suggest potential impacts on carbohydrate digestion. While GDL interacts with food components, its direct interaction with human body systems is limited and not well-documented. The precise molecular targets and absorption/bioavailability in humans are not clearly defined in available research. Its primary mechanism involves the gradual hydrolysis in aqueous solutions, releasing gluconic acid and lowering the pH.
Side effects
GDL is considered safe for use in food products, with toxicological studies indicating low concern for toxicity. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not documented in available research. No drug interactions or contraindications have been identified. There are no specific safety concerns noted for special populations. Overall, GDL has a favorable safety profile when used as a food additive, but its safety as a dietary supplement has not been extensively studied.
Dosage
A minimum effective dose for health benefits has not been established. Optimal dosage ranges are also not established. Toxicological studies suggest high doses are tolerated without adverse effects, but specific limits are not defined for supplement use. Timing considerations, form-specific recommendations, absorption factors, and required cofactors are not documented, as GDL is primarily used in food processing rather than as a dietary supplement.
FAQs
What is GDL primarily used for?
GDL is primarily used in food processing as a curing and pickling agent, leavening agent, pH control agent, and sequestrant.
Is GDL safe to consume?
GDL is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for food use, with toxicological studies indicating low toxicity.
Are there any known health benefits of GDL?
Limited direct evidence exists on health benefits. GDL's modification of starch properties may indirectly affect digestion, but more research is needed.
Is GDL a dietary supplement?
GDL is primarily a food additive and is often confused with being a dietary supplement. Research on its use as a supplement is limited.
Research Sources
- https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/glucono%20delta-lactone – This entry from PubChem provides the chemical properties, structure, and identifiers for Glucono delta-lactone. It serves as a foundational reference for understanding the basic characteristics of the compound.
- https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/Glucono%20Delta%20Lactone%20TR.pdf – This document from the USDA provides technical information on Glucono Delta Lactone, likely related to its use in food processing and regulations. It is a valuable resource for understanding its approved applications and standards within the food industry.
- https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2019-08/documents/support_document_for_proposed_designation_of_d-gluconic_acid_.delta_.-lactone.pdf – This EPA support document discusses the proposed designation of D-gluconic acid .delta.-lactone, likely focusing on its environmental impact and safety. It provides insights into the regulatory considerations and potential environmental effects of the compound.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37174308/ – This study investigates the impact of glucono-delta-lactone (GDL) on the properties of different starches, including potato, tapioca, and corn starch. The findings indicate that GDL can modify starch properties, improving pasting and reducing syneresis, which are important for food texture and stability.
- https://cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/glycol092020slr.pdf – This document from the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) provides a safety assessment of glycols, including gluconolactone (GDL). It offers a comprehensive review of the available safety data, including toxicological studies, to determine the safety of GDL for use in cosmetic products.