Galactonic acid is a type of organic acid that is derived from the sugar galactose. It is a sugar acid, meaning it contains both a carboxylic acid group and a hydroxyl group. Galactonic acid is often found in the form of its salts or esters and plays a role in various biochemical processes. This compound is significant in the study of carbohydrates and can be produced through the oxidation of galactose. It is also of interest in food science and nutrition, as it may have implications for the metabolism of certain sugars in the human body.