Ferrous lactate
Ferrous lactate, identified by CAS number 5905-52-2, is a chemical compound composed of iron and lactic acid. It typically appears as a greenish-white crystalline powder or small crusts with a slight, characteristic odor. As a divalent iron salt of lactic acid, it is recognized for its solubility in water and its relatively high bioavailability compared to other inorganic iron forms. This makes it a significant raw material in various industrial sectors where stable iron fortification or chemical reactivity is required.
In terms of chemical handling, ferrous lactate is sensitive to both air and light, which can lead to oxidation from the ferrous (Fe2+) state to the ferric (Fe3+) state. Consequently, it requires storage in tightly sealed, light-resistant containers to maintain its integrity and performance. Its chemical stability in aqueous solutions is a key factor for its selection in liquid formulations, though pH levels must be carefully monitored to prevent precipitation or color changes during processing.
• In the food and beverage industry, ferrous lactate serves as a vital nutrient fortifier and color stabilizer. It is frequently incorporated into dairy products, infant formulas, and cereal-based foods to enhance iron content without significantly altering the flavor profile. Its high solubility ensures uniform distribution in liquid products, while its role as a color retention agent helps maintain the aesthetic quality of processed vegetables, such as canned olives, by preventing unwanted discoloration during storage.
• Within the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, this compound is utilized as a primary source of elemental iron in the formulation of dietary supplements and multi-vitamin preparations. Because it is generally better tolerated by the digestive system than traditional iron salts like ferrous sulfate, it is a preferred choice for developing products aimed at addressing iron deficiencies. Manufacturers value its consistent purity and predictable behavior when blended with other active ingredients or excipients in tablet and capsule forms.
• In specialized industrial and laboratory applications, ferrous lactate acts as a reagent in chemical synthesis and as a catalyst in various organic reactions. Its ability to provide a controlled source of ferrous ions makes it useful in the production of certain polymers and in the treatment of textiles where specific metal-ion interactions are necessary. Additionally, it finds use in research settings for studying iron metabolism and the kinetics of lactate-metal complexes due to its well-defined chemical structure and solubility characteristics.
Product Name: Ferrous lactate
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