Glyceryl Palmitate Lactate

Other names: Hexadecanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol 2-hydroxypropanoate, Glycerollactopalmitates, Glycerollactopalmitate, Hexadecanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol 2-hydroxypropanoate, Glyceryl lactopalmitate, Glyceryl lactyl palmitate, Lactylated fat

Harm score: 3 (Harmless chemicals)

Glyceryl Palmitate Lactate is an ingredient that is used extensively in the cosmetic and food manufacturing industries. In a technical sense, it is an ester formed from hexadecanoic acid and 1,2,3-propanetriol 2-hydroxypropanoate. Other names used for this chemical compound include Glyceryllactopalmitate, Glyceryllactopalmitate, Hexadecanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol 2-hydroxypropanoate, Glyceryl lactopalmitate, Glyceryl lactyl palmitate, Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propane-1,2-diol or Lactylated fatty acid esters of glycerol and propylene glycol. This list shows the variety of designations which may be misleading to the lay public.

Glyceryl Palmitate Lactate is used in cosmetics for its ability to moisturize and soften the skin. This is why it can be found in numerous products such as body creams, lotions, oils, face masks and lip balms. Thanks to its properties, it also improves the texture of cosmetic products and increases their stability. In food production, it is used as an emulsifier, which contributes to a better consistency of food, improves its appearance and promotes long-term shelf life. It can therefore be found, for example, in bakery products, dairy products, fat emulsions, but also in some types of confectionery. Even though Glyceryl Palmitate Lactate is considered safe, there are a number of studies investigating its potential effect on the human body. For example, high intakes of it can lead to a rise in blood cholesterol levels.