Dextrose Monohydrate vs Dextrose Anhydrous

Both products are D-glucose made from starch. Dextrose monohydrate crystallises with one molecule of water for every molecule of glucose; dextrose anhydrous has that water removed. Chemically the glucose is identical, and both are classified under the same HS code, 170230.

At a glance

	Monohydrate	Anhydrous
Formula	C6H12O6 · H2O	C6H12O6
Molar mass	198.17 g/mol	180.16 g/mol
Water of crystallisation	about 9%	essentially none
CAS number	5996-10-1	50-99-7
Typical uses	Food, beverages, confectionery, fermentation	Pharmaceutical tablets, dry mixes, water-sensitive formulations

Compare prices on glucose content, not weight

Because about 9% of dextrose monohydrate is water, you need roughly 1.1 kg of monohydrate to deliver the same glucose as 1.0 kg of anhydrous. That ratio comes straight from the molar masses (198.17 / 180.16). When comparing quotations, convert both to the same glucose basis; otherwise a cheaper monohydrate price can hide a higher real cost.

Which one to choose

• Choose monohydrate for most food and beverage uses and for fermentation feedstock. It is the more widely produced form and usually cheaper per tonne.
• Choose anhydrous where added water causes problems: moisture-sensitive tablets, effervescent products and dry blends that must stay free-flowing.

Both forms are hygroscopic and should be stored sealed, in a cool and dry place.

See the specifications for Dextrose Monohydrate and Dextrose Anhydrous, or request a quotation for either.