Food additives have become a common ingredient in our everyday diet. Mono- and diglycerides (E471), CITREM (E472c), Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides, DATEM (E472e), and Mono- and diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides are some of the additives used in the food industry. These additives perform various functions such as emulsification, aeration, foaming, and texture improvement, among others. This blog will focus on E472e, one of the commonly used mono- and diglycerides.
What are Mono- and Diglycerides?
Mono- and diglycerides are naturally occurring fats commonly found in animal and vegetable fats. Mono- and diglycerides are produced by reacting glycerol with fatty acids. The resulting substance is a food additive that is versatile in its application, making it a popular ingredient in the food industry.
What is E472e?
E472e is also known as diacetyl tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides (DATEM). It is produced by reacting glycerol with tartaric acid and acetic anhydride. E472e is commonly used as an emulsifier in baked goods, dairy products, and other food products.
Benefits of E472e
E472e serves as an emulsifier, which means it helps to mix two ingredients that would otherwise separate. In bakery products, it helps to create a uniform texture, increase shelf life, and improve the overall quality of the product. E472e can also help to improve the volume, texture, and crumb structure of bread, cakes, and other baked goods.
In dairy products, E472e can be used to prevent whey separation in cheese products, leading to a more uniform texture. It is also used as a whipping aid in some dairy products, such as ice cream, helping to improve the texture and volume.
E472e is considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies around the world, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Conclusion
Mono- and diglycerides, including E472e, are commonly used food additives with many benefits in the food industry. E472e, in particular, is an essential emulsifier used in a variety of food products, including baked goods and dairy products. While there are many controversies surrounding the use of food additives, E472e has been considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies worldwide. As always, when choosing foods, it is essential to read ingredient labels and understand the role of each ingredient to ensure a balanced and healthy diet.
Keywords: E472e, mono- and diglycerides, food additive, emulsifier, DATEM, FDA, EFSA.