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Polyglyceryl-4 oleate

Polyglyceryl-4 oleate suppliers and sourcing guide

Polyglyceryl-4 oleate is a nonionic emulsifier made in two steps: glycerol is polymerized to polyglycerol averaging four glycerol units, and the polyglycerol is esterified with oleic acid from vegetable oils. It is a yellowish, viscous liquid. Brands use it as an emulsifier and wetting agent in creams, lotions and cleansing oils, often as a PEG-free option, and it is commonly sold in grades approved under natural cosmetic standards.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
Tetraglyceryl monooleate · 9-Octadecenoic acid, monoester with tetraglycerol · CAS 71012-10-7
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of Polyglyceryl-4 oleate

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

  • Vegetable-derived grade

    Made from vegetable glycerol and oleic acid; the plant source (for example sunflower, rapeseed or palm) should be stated on the specification.

  • Natural-standard approved grades

    Grades approved under COSMOS or similar standards, often with palm-free or RSPO-certified sourcing.

  • Related polyglyceryl esters

    Esters with other chain lengths or polyglycerol sizes, such as polyglyceryl-3 or polyglyceryl-10 esters, are separate ingredients with different HLB values.

What to check on the COA

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

Acid, saponification and hydroxyl values
Titration values that confirm the ester profile and degree of esterification and flag hydrolysis in older stock.
Iodine value
Unsaturation by titration, consistent with oleic acid.
Water (Karl Fischer)
Water content by Karl Fischer titration against the supplier's limit.
Color
Gardner color, which rises with age and heat.
Heavy metals
Lead, arsenic and other elements by ICP-MS or ICP-OES against the supplier's specification or the applicable USP, NF or cosmetic-grade limit.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store polyglyceryl-4 oleate sealed in a cool place away from light and air, since its unsaturated oleic chains can oxidize; nitrogen in the headspace of part-used drums helps. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value, peroxide value or color for older stock.

Lots and expiry dates

Color and acid value vary between lots and producers, so record them for each lot along with the plant source. Check emulsion stability on a test batch when changing suppliers.

Regulatory status

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

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.

Polyglyceryl-4 oleate suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking Polyglyceryl-4 oleate 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 Polyglyceryl-4 oleate can brands buy?

Common forms include vegetable-derived grade, natural-standard approved grades and related polyglyceryl esters. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for Polyglyceryl-4 oleate include?

Expect acid, saponification and hydroxyl values, iodine value, water (Karl Fischer), color and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should Polyglyceryl-4 oleate be stored?

Store polyglyceryl-4 oleate sealed in a cool place away from light and air, since its unsaturated oleic chains can oxidize; nitrogen in the headspace of part-used drums helps. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of acid value, peroxide value or color for older stock.

What is the regulatory status of Polyglyceryl-4 oleate?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists polyglyceryl-4 oleate under the proper name 9-octadecenoic acid, monoester with tetraglycerol, with non-medicinal purposes emollient and emulsifying agent. The same database entry restricts it to topical use at up to 1.8%, when formulated to be non-irritating.

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