Gluconic Acid

Brief Overview 

Gluconic acid is produced from dextrose, which is a part of the glucose group. This substance occurs naturally in fruit and honey used. The physical appearance of gluconic acid is a colorless to yellowish powder highly soluble in water. Gluconic acid is used in food as an acidity regulator and raising agent. In addition, gluconic acid can help prevent urinary stone disease and promote intestinal microflora activity.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process started by reacting a glucose mash active cultures of gluconic acid-producing fungi, such as Penicillium. Neutralizing agents, such as calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, were added to the mixture. The next step was to conduct a fermentation reaction at low temperature and high pressure. The final product of the fermentation yielded a gluconic acid solution. The solution then underwent a purification and crystallization process to form a powder of gluconic acid.

Food Industry

Gluconic acid is mainly used as a component of a leavening agent in baked goods and foods such as meat, wine, and dairy. It is also used as a pickling agent, pH control agent, and sequestrant. Gluconic acid is popularly used as a flavoring agent and can reduce fat absorption in doughnuts and cones.