Glyceryl stearate citrate is an ester of citric acid and glyceryl stearate. Depending on the formula and how much is used, this ingredient can act as an emollient, emulsifier or even a surfactant. Glyceryl stearate citrate is typically plant-derived, such as from vegetable oils, or synthetic, but depending on the supplier, the glyceryl stearate portion of this ingredient may be of animal origin. This ingredient has been evaluated for safety as used in cosmetics and was found to be safe and non-sensitizing. https://www.paulaschoice.com/ingredient-dictionary/ingredient-glyceryl-stearate-citrate.html?q=Glyceryl%20Stearate%20Citrate&fdid=ingredients