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Propylene glycol monostearate

Propylene glycol monostearate suppliers and sourcing guide

Propylene glycol monostearate (PGMS) is an emulsifier made by esterifying propylene glycol with stearic acid or by reacting fats with propylene glycol. Commercial products are mixtures of mono- and diesters, and distilled grades contain mostly monoester. It is a white to cream waxy solid used in cake shortenings and cake mixes, whipped toppings and other aerated products, often combined with other emulsifiers.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
PGMS · Propylene glycol mono- and diesters of fats and fatty acids · E477 · Propane-1,2-diol esters of fatty acids · Propylene glycol stearate
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of propylene glycol monostearate

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

  • Distilled PGMS

    Molecularly distilled grades with a high monoester content.

  • Non-distilled mono- and diesters

    Lower-cost mixtures with more diester, used in shortenings.

  • Beads, flakes or powder

    Solid forms chosen for dosing and blending into dry mixes or fats.

  • Fat source grades

    Palm-based (sometimes RSPO), soy-based or palm-free grades.

What to check on the COA

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

Monoester content
Propylene glycol monoester content by GC, the main measure of grade.
Acid value
Free fatty acid by titration.
Free propylene glycol
Residual free propylene glycol, usually by GC.
Saponification value and iodine value
Titration results that characterize the fatty acid profile.
Heavy metals
Lead, and often arsenic, cadmium and mercury, by ICP-MS or AAS against the supplier's specification or Food Chemicals Codex (FCC) limits.
Melting range
Physical identity check for solid grades.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store PGMS in sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, since beads and powders soften and cake when warm. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, usually with retest of acid value and appearance.

Lots and expiry dates

Monoester content and fatty acid profile vary between distilled and non-distilled grades and between suppliers, which affects aeration in cakes and toppings. Record the grade and monoester value from each COA.

Regulatory status

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

  • 21 CFR 172.856 permits propylene glycol mono- and diesters of fats and fatty acids in food, produced from edible fats or fatty acids, in amounts not over what is reasonably required for their intended effect.

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

  • Health Canada's List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents includes propylene glycol mono fatty acid esters, with ice cream mix among its permitted foods.

    Source: canada.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.

Propylene glycol monostearate suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking propylene glycol monostearate 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.

Sell propylene glycol monostearate? Request a listing

Frequently asked questions

What forms of propylene glycol monostearate can brands buy?

Common forms include distilled PGMS, non-distilled mono- and diesters, beads, flakes or powder and fat source grades. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for propylene glycol monostearate include?

Expect monoester content, acid value, free propylene glycol, saponification value and iodine value, heavy metals and melting range, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should propylene glycol monostearate be stored?

Store PGMS in sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, since beads and powders soften and cake when warm. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, usually with retest of acid value and appearance.

What is the regulatory status of propylene glycol monostearate?

21 CFR 172.856 permits propylene glycol mono- and diesters of fats and fatty acids in food, produced from edible fats or fatty acids, in amounts not over what is reasonably required for their intended effect. Health Canada's List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents includes propylene glycol mono fatty acid esters, with ice cream mix among its permitted foods.

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