Glycerol monolaurate (E471) is used as an emulsifier, preservative, and stabilizer in a wide range of food and personal care products. Its primary uses are in bakery products, dairy, and confectionery to improve texture and prevent separation, and in beverages, sauces, and meat products for similar stabilizing effects. It also has antimicrobial properties that help extend shelf life in foods and are used in products like soaps and creams.