stearin

chemical compound

Also known as: stearine

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Stearin is an ester of glycerol and stearic acid. Stearic acid is a common long-chain fatty acid found in animal and vegetable fats, such as lard and tallow. Commercial "stearic acid" is typically a mixture of stearic and palmitic acids.12

Stearin and stearic acid are used in the production of candles, cosmetics, soaps, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals. Pure stearic acid is a colorless, waxy solid that is insoluble in water.2

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fat and oil processing
Destearinating or winterizing
Separation of high-melting glycerides, or stearine, usually requires very slow cooling in order to form crystals that are large enough to be removed by filtration or centrifuging. Thus linseed oil may be winterized to remove traces of waxes that otherwise interfere with its use in paints and varnishes. Stearine may…
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Separation of high-melting glycerides, or stearine, usually requires very slow cooling in order to form crystals that are large enough to be removed by filtration or centrifuging. Thus linseed oil may be winterized to remove traces of waxes that otherwise interfere with its use in paints and varnishes. Stearine may…
Read More