MONOLAURIN

Properties

It is ester preservative, and has strong inhibitory activity against a wide spectrum of yeasts, fungi, bacteria and viruses, including most of the food-born pathogens. Its inhibitory activity is independent of the pH of the medium, which is superior to the commonly used acid preservatives.

Formula

 C₁₅H₃₀O₄

 Appearance and Color

White powder or waxy solid 

Safety

Monolaurin is non-toxic, it has been approved as a food additive for over 40 years by the U.S. government, and was listed in GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) in 1964.

Applications

Monolaurin could be used widely in food such as meat, bakery products,  emulsified flavorings as preservative and emulsifier. It could also be used in cosmetics and drugs. When used in food, there isn’t special limitations other than not to exceed the current good manufacturing practice.