Ingredient · Updated
Mono- and Diglycerides
Found in 20 productsSee all
What is Mono- and Diglycerides?
Mono and diglycerides are compounds that are derived from fatty acids, often produced through the hydrolysis of oils and fats. They are not fully composed of just one glycerol and fatty acid, which differentiates them from true triglycerides and gives them unique properties.
These ingredients are primarily used as emulsifiers in food products. They help blend ingredients that typically don't mix well, such as oil and water, improving texture and consistency. The health impact is often characterized by mixed findings, as they are considered safe under regulatory guidelines, but their derivation from seed oils can concern those wary of overprocessing.
When you see mono and diglycerides on a label, it might indicate the presence of oils that are typically more processed. They do not contribute significantly to the nutritional profile but play a functional role in food processing.
Commonly found in: bakery goods, margarine, prepared foods, ice cream, confectionery
What to watch
- May be derived from seed oils which are highly processed.
- As emulsifiers, they can sometimes affect the digestive system, leading to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
- They improve the texture and shelf stability of food products.
Mono and diglycerides are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research shows they are effective as emulsifiers but concerns exist about their origin from processed oils which some studies suggest could have adverse health effects.
Mono and diglycerides can be derived from animal fats, but are often from plant sources. Vegans may want to verify the source.
Sources: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21
Scout's take
Mono- and diglycerides are emulsifiers used to improve texture and shelf life. They are often derived from seed oils and can contain trans fats. Their use in processed foods is associated with potential health concerns related to trans fat consumption.
The case against
May contain trans fats, which are linked to increased risk of heart disease.
from the analysis of Lays Stax Original Stax Potato Chips · echoed in 3 other analysesPotential presence of trans fats, which are associated with increased heart disease risk.
from the analysis of Log Cabin Original Syrup - 24 fl oz · echoed in 2 other analysesMay contain trans fats and chemical residues from processing.
from the analysis of Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLSThe case for
Improves texture and stability of food products but offers no nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Sour Strips Rainbow CandyMore from Scout's analyses
Mono and diglycerides are emulsifiers used to improve texture and shelf life. They are often derived from partially hydrogenated oils, which can contain trans fats. Their processing can introduce unwanted chemical residues.
from the analysis of Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLSIndustrial emulsifiers; can contain residual trans fats not required on label at <0.5g/serving.
from the analysis of Laffy Taffy BananaIndustrial emulsifiers.
from the analysis of Twizzlers Pull 'n' Peel WatermelonAll 20 products with Mono- and Diglycerides
Where Mono- and Diglycerides shows up
- Candy 5 products
- Protein Powders 4 products
- Salty Snacks 3 products
- Sugars 2 products
- Cookies 2 products
- Creamers 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Mono- and Diglycerides
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Mono- and Diglycerides, scoring 80 or above.
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