Glukonik asit

Detailed information

What it is & how it is made

According to the EU specification, gluconic acid is an aqueous solution of gluconic acid and glucono-delta-lactone; its chemical formula is C6H12O7 and the assay is not less than 49 percent (Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, E 574). In the JECFA classification it is listed under the functional classes acid, acidity regulator, raising agent and sequestrant.

Where it is used

It appears in Group I of Part C of Annex II to EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, that is, among the additives that may be used at quantum satis, the level needed to achieve the technological purpose. The Turkish Food Codex Regulation on Food Additives (Official Gazette 30.06.2013/28693) follows the same list. Its main functions are regulating acidity, acting as the acid component of raising systems and binding metal ions.

Health note

JECFA assessed gluconic acid together with glucono-delta-lactone and the calcium, potassium and sodium gluconates in a single group and left the group acceptable daily intake (ADI) 'not specified' (51st JECFA, 1998; TRS 891). EFSA's re-evaluation has not been completed: the call for data for E 574 and related additives (E 575-579) opened on 28 June 2023 and closed on 31 March 2024, and no scientific opinion has been published.

Halal assessment

The EU specification (231/2012) defines no manufacturing method or raw material for E 574; within this group only the specification for sodium gluconate (E 576) states a production route. Although the legislation records nothing about animal raw material, unless the production route is documented it should be treated as source dependent; consult the manufacturer's halal certificate for a definitive answer.