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Polyglutamic acid

Polyglutamic acid suppliers and sourcing guide

Polyglutamic acid is a polymer of glutamic acid. The cosmetic material is usually gamma-polyglutamic acid, made by fermentation with Bacillus subtilis (the organism used for natto) and then purified, sometimes as its sodium salt. It is a white powder or a viscous aqueous solution that forms a film and holds water. Brands buy it by molecular weight grade for serums, creams and hair products.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
gamma-polyglutamic acid · γ-PGA · L-glutamic acid, homopolymer · sodium polyglutamate · CAS 25513-46-6
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of polyglutamic acid

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • High molecular weight powder

    Large-polymer grades that thicken and form films; dissolve with slow stirring.

  • Low molecular weight powder

    Smaller polymer grades with lower viscosity in solution.

  • Sodium polyglutamate

    The sodium salt, which dissolves more readily and is labeled with its own INCI name.

  • Aqueous solutions

    Pre-dissolved polyglutamic acid at a stated percentage with a preservative.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Assay or purity
Polyglutamic acid content by a stated method, often HPLC after hydrolysis.
Molecular weight
Average molecular weight or range by GPC, which defines the grade.
pH and viscosity
pH and viscosity of a set solution.
Loss on drying
Water content of the powder.
Microbiology and heavy metals
Total aerobic count, yeast and mold, and lead and other metals by ICP-MS.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Keep polyglutamic acid powder sealed and dry at room temperature, since it is very hygroscopic. Solutions should be kept closed and used within the supplier shelf life. Retest dates come from the supplier.

Lots and expiry dates

Molecular weight and viscosity can differ between lots and between suppliers, so record both and test viscosity in the formula when switching lots. Note whether each lot is the free acid or the sodium salt.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

  • Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists polyglutamic acid (proper name L-glutamic acid, homopolymer; CAS 25513-46-6) with the non-medicinal purpose skin-conditioning agent, for topical use only.

    Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)

  • GRN 339 (polyglutamic acid, notified by Ajinomoto Corporate Services) for use as a debittering agent in potassium chloride salt substitutes closed in November 2010 with FDA having no questions.

    Source: hfpappexternal.fda.gov (opens in a new tab)

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Polyglutamic acid suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking polyglutamic acid suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

Sell polyglutamic acid? Request a listing

Frequently asked questions

What forms of polyglutamic acid can brands buy?

Common forms include high molecular weight powder, low molecular weight powder, sodium polyglutamate and aqueous solutions. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for polyglutamic acid include?

Expect assay or purity, molecular weight, pH and viscosity, loss on drying and microbiology and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should polyglutamic acid be stored?

Keep polyglutamic acid powder sealed and dry at room temperature, since it is very hygroscopic. Solutions should be kept closed and used within the supplier shelf life. Retest dates come from the supplier.

What is the regulatory status of polyglutamic acid?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists polyglutamic acid (proper name L-glutamic acid, homopolymer; CAS 25513-46-6) with the non-medicinal purpose skin-conditioning agent, for topical use only. GRN 339 (polyglutamic acid, notified by Ajinomoto Corporate Services) for use as a debittering agent in potassium chloride salt substitutes closed in November 2010 with FDA having no questions.

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