Gluconic acid (E574) is a sugar acid formed by the oxidation of the aldehyde group of glucose. Chemical formula C6H11O7−.
It forms gluconate salts (for example, sodium gluconate, potassium gluconate, calcium gluconate, iron gluconate, magnesium gluconate).
The phosphorylated form of gluconic acid is an important intermediate of carbohydrate metabolism in living cells.
Gluconic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a filler for tablets.
In the food industry, it is registered as a food additive E574, as an acidity regulator and baking powder.