emulsifier INS 472a

Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides E472a

fatty acid derivative — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Acetoglycerides

CAS: 25383-99-7

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

What Is Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

Acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides (ACETEM) are produced by acetylation of mono- and diglycerides. They function as emulsifiers and anti-staling agents in bread and bakery products, improving crumb structure and extending freshness. ACETEM also functions as a fat replacer in some applications. JECFA considers acetem acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA reviewed acetic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides in 2016 as part of the monoglyceride ester group. Approved in the EU, USA, Japan, Canada, and Australia.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Approved for use at quantum satis in specified food categories

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe)

GRAS status for use in food

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Approved for general food use

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical esterification

Produced by reacting mono- and diglycerides (derived from vegetable oils or animal fats) with acetic acid or acetic anhydride under controlled conditions.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in cosmetic emulsions and creams

Medical

Used in some pharmaceutical formulations as emulsifier

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472a)?

Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472a) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is fatty acid derivative and synthetic. Synthetic emulsifier created by esterifying mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids with acetic acid. Forms a coating that helps prevent fat crystals from forming and improves texture.

What is the ADI for Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is not specified as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is used in various food categories including Confectionery, Cereals and cereal products, Fine bakery wares. It is used as a emulsifier in these products.

Is Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides the same as Acetin?

Yes, Acetic Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is also known as Acetin, Acetylated monoglycerides, ACETEM. These are different names for the same substance.