E574: Gluconic Acid
Main role: acidity adjustment and metal-ion binding
Also listed as: D-gluconic acid
What is E574 (Gluconic Acid)?
Gluconic acid E574 is produced by oxidation of glucose. It can adjust acidity and bind metal ions in a food system. It is related to glucono-delta-lactone, which releases gluconic acid when it interacts with water.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is acidity adjustment and metal-ion binding. Acidity regulators adjust or buffer pH. The resulting acidity depends on the whole recipe, not just the presence of one acid or salt. Acidity control may also affect texture and the performance of other ingredients.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified acidity-control preparations
- Selected beverages
- Ingredient-processing blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E574, E 574, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include D-gluconic acid. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Gluconic acid is not glucose, despite the related names. An additive listing does not state the finished product's sugar content; compare the nutrition panel for that.
Is E574 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E574 as Gluconic acid. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.