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Glyceryl behenate

Glyceryl behenate suppliers and sourcing guide

Glyceryl behenate is a mixture of mono-, di- and triglycerides of behenic acid, a saturated C22 fatty acid, made by esterifying glycerin with behenic acid. It is a fine white waxy powder or pellet with a high melting point. Tablet makers buy it as a lubricant, especially where magnesium stearate slows dissolution or softens tablets, and as a lipid matrix for taste masking and slow-release forms; cosmetic makers use it to thicken oils.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
Glyceryl dibehenate · Glycerol behenate · Behenin · Docosanoic acid, glyceryl esters
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of glyceryl behenate

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Atomized powder

    Fine spray-congealed powder, the usual form for tablet lubrication.

  • Pellets or pastilles

    Larger particles for melt processes such as hot-melt coating and granulation.

  • Pharmaceutical grade

    Grades meeting the NF or Ph. Eur. monograph, with mono-, di- and triglyceride ranges.

  • Cosmetic grade

    Grades for structuring oils in balms, lipsticks and creams.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Glyceride composition
Mono-, di- and triglyceride content by size-exclusion chromatography or GC against the monograph ranges.
Fatty acid composition
Behenic acid share of total fatty acids by GC, which confirms identity and source.
Acid, saponification and iodine values
Titration values that show free fatty acid, ester content and saturation.
Melting range
Melting point by capillary or DSC, which matters for melt processing and storage.
Heavy metals
Lead and other metals by ICP-MS against the specification.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store in closed containers in a cool place, away from heat that can soften or fuse the powder. It is a saturated lipid and stable against oxidation; shelf life and retest are set by the supplier.

Lots and expiry dates

Glyceride ratios and particle size vary by lot and can change lubrication and dissolution. Record composition and particle size per lot, and keep blending times consistent.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

  • 21 CFR 184.1328 affirms glyceryl behenate as GRAS for use as a formulation aid, including in excipient formulations for tablets, at levels not to exceed good manufacturing practice.

    Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)

  • 21 CFR 184.1328 describes it as a mixture of glyceryl esters of behenic acid, predominantly glyceryl dibehenate, with behenic acid making up 80 to 90 percent of total fatty acids.

    Source: ecfr.gov (opens in a new tab)

  • Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl behenate with non-medicinal purposes including emulsifying agent and lubricant.

    Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Glyceryl behenate suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking glyceryl behenate suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of glyceryl behenate can brands buy?

Common forms include atomized powder, pellets or pastilles, pharmaceutical grade and cosmetic grade. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for glyceryl behenate include?

Expect glyceride composition, fatty acid composition, acid, saponification and iodine values, melting range and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should glyceryl behenate be stored?

Store in closed containers in a cool place, away from heat that can soften or fuse the powder. It is a saturated lipid and stable against oxidation; shelf life and retest are set by the supplier.

What is the regulatory status of glyceryl behenate?

21 CFR 184.1328 affirms glyceryl behenate as GRAS for use as a formulation aid, including in excipient formulations for tablets, at levels not to exceed good manufacturing practice. 21 CFR 184.1328 describes it as a mixture of glyceryl esters of behenic acid, predominantly glyceryl dibehenate, with behenic acid making up 80 to 90 percent of total fatty acids. Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists glyceryl behenate with non-medicinal purposes including emulsifying agent and lubricant.

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