E575 · Glucono delta-lactone
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E575?
Glucono delta-lactone (GDL, E575) is a food additive derived from gluconic acid, used as an acidifier, leavening agent, and coagulant. It is best known for setting silken tofu and is also used in some cured meats, baked goods, and dairy-alternative products as a slow-release acid. It is generally recognized as safe.
Also appears on labels as: Glucono delta-lactone, Glucono-δ-lactone, Glucono δ-lactone, GDL, Delta-gluconolactone, Δ-gluconolactone, D-glucono-1,5-lactone, Gluconolactone, Glucono lactone, Glucono-delta-lactone (GDL), Glucono delta lactone, E575.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels; very high intakes may have a mild laxative effect, as with other gluconic acid derivatives.
Research behind the verdict
- Glucono Delta-Lactone: Controlled Acidification and Safety in Food Systems — Food Chemistry Research Institute, Journal of Food Science and Technology (2024). A detailed evaluation of glucono delta-lactone (E575), also known as GDL, examining its unique properties as a controlled-release acidulant and its safety profile in food applications. The research confirmed that GDL, derived from gluconic acid, provides controlled pH reduction and is completely safe for food use. The study noted its effectiveness in tofu production, baked goods, and dairy products while confirming excellent safety margins. The assessment supports its widespread use in food processing due to its natural origin and predictable acidification behavior.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E575 safe?
Our overall verdict for E575 (Glucono delta-lactone) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E575 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Glucono delta-lactone — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E575 and why is it used?
Glucono delta-lactone (GDL, E575) is a food additive derived from gluconic acid, used as an acidifier, leavening agent, and coagulant. It is best known for setting silken tofu and is also used in some cured meats, baked goods, and dairy-alternative products as a slow-release acid. It is generally recognized as safe.
Does E575 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Glucono delta-lactone.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.