Mixing Eumulgin SG and Handling Heat-Sensitive Ingredients in Emulsions
Question
Hello, I have a question about Eumulgin SG. I tried mixing it into the oil phase and heated it to 90 degrees Celsius while stirring, but it didn't seem to dissolve completely with the oil. It remained as fine, coarse particles. The oil used for dissolving was c12-15 alkyl distearate 5g, and I used 0.30g of Eumulgin SG. I would like to know the correct method because there are other ingredients that cannot withstand heat above 80 degrees Celsius.
Answer
Regarding the use of Eumulgin SG (Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate)
Thank you for your question regarding the use of Eumulgin SG, also known as Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate.
Based on the product information for Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, the recommended method is indeed to mix it in the oil phase and heat to 90°C. While its melting point is lower (54°-60°C), heating to 90°C in the oil phase is part of the standard procedure to ensure proper dispersion and preparation for emulsification with the hot water phase.
It is possible that what you observed as "fine, coarse particles" was the Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate melted and dispersed within the oil phase, rather than fully dissolving into a clear liquid. This can be normal for some emulsifiers before the oil and water phases are combined and emulsified.
Regarding your concern about other ingredients that cannot tolerate temperatures above 80°C:
The standard procedure involves heating both the oil phase (containing Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate) and the water phase to 90°C, then combining them and blending to create the emulsion. Any heat-sensitive ingredients that cannot withstand 90°C (or even 80°C) should not be added to either the oil or water phase during this initial heating step. Instead, these ingredients should be added to the emulsion after it has been formed and has cooled down to a temperature below 80°C (or the maximum temperature they can tolerate).
In summary:
- Heating Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate in the oil phase to 90°C is the correct mixing method according to product instructions.
- The appearance of fine particles might be expected dispersion rather than full dissolution.
- Add heat-sensitive ingredients after the main emulsion has been formed and cooled below their maximum temperature tolerance.
Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate is also often used in combination with other emulsifiers or thickeners for optimal stability in a formulation.