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Product Line: Food Industry

Lactic acid

CAS 50-21-5

Molecular structure of Lactic acid

CAS · 50-21-5

01

Product Overview

Lactic acid丨50-21-5 is a natural organic acid that occurs in biological systems, especially in fermented foods, dairy products, and muscle metabolism. It is a weak acid commonly found in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial processes. Due to its biodegradable, non-toxic, and renewable nature, it has broad applications in multiple industries.

02

Product Specifications

Property Specification
Grade BP2000/USP28/FCC IV
Appearance Colourless or slightly yellow, syrupy liquid
Molecular Weight 90.08 g/mol
Content 80.0% - 92.0%
Specific Optical Rotation -5° to +5°
Density (@20℃) 1.20 - 1.30 g/ml
Refractive Index (20℃) 1.42 - 1.43
Odour Slightly acid
Taste Mild acid
Solubility Miscible with water and with ethanol (96%)
Heavy Metals (as Pb) 10 ppm max.
Iron 10 ppm max.
Calcium 10 ppm max.
Chloride 10 ppm max.
Sulphate 10 ppm max.
Sulphated Ash 0.05% max.
Cyanide 5 ppm max.
Lead 0.5 ppm max.
Reducing Substances (Sugars) Passes FCC test
Citric, Oxalic, Tartaric, Phosphoric Acids Passes USP test
Heat-Resistance Temperature (℃) /
03

Applications

1. Food and Beverage Industry

● Food Preservative and pH Regulator: Used as a natural preservative, acidity regulator, and flavoring agent in processed foods and beverages.

● Dairy Products: Naturally present in yogurt, cheese, and fermented milk products due to bacterial fermentation.

● Beverages: Used in beer brewing, soft drinks, and fermented drinks like kombucha to enhance taste and stability.

● Meat Processing: Applied to meat products as an antibacterial agent to prevent spoilage.

2. Pharmaceutical and Medical Applications

● IV Fluids and Electrolyte Solutions: Lactic acid丨50-21-5 is used in Ringer's lactate solution, which is administered for hydration and electrolyte balance in medical treatments.

● Pharmaceutical Synthesis: Acts as a precursor for drug formulations and topical medications.

● Dermatology: Used in chemical peels and skin treatments to improve cell turnover, treat hyperpigmentation, and reduce fine lines.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care

● Moisturizers and Anti-Aging Products: Lactic acid is a part of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which help in exfoliation, skin hydration, and brightening.

● Shampoos and Conditioners: Regulates pH and enhances hair smoothness.

● Oral Care: Found in toothpaste and mouthwashes for plaque prevention.

4. Biodegradable Plastics (PLA - Polylactic Acid)

● Eco-Friendly Packaging: Lactic acid is used in the production of polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable plastic that is an alternative to petroleum-based plastics.

● Medical Sutures and Implants: PLA-based products, derived from lactic acid, are used in biodegradable medical implants, stitches, and controlled drug release systems.

5. Agriculture and Animal Feed

● Silage Preservation: Helps maintain pH stability in silage, preventing spoilage in animal feed.

● Growth Promoter in Livestock: Used in animal feed formulations to improve gut health and digestion.

6. Industrial and Chemical Processing

● Leather and Textile Industry: Used in tanning and dyeing fabrics to soften leather and enhance color absorption.

● Cleaning and Detergents: An ingredient in eco-friendly cleaners and descaling agents to remove lime deposits, soap scum, and mineral buildup.

04

Benefits

✅ Natural and Biodegradable

● Sourced from fermentation, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly chemical.

✅ Non-Toxic and Safe for Human Use

● Widely used in food, skincare, and medicine without harmful effects.

✅ Antimicrobial Properties

● Inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, making it a great food preservative and skincare ingredient.

✅ Versatile Industrial Uses

● Plays a role in biodegradable plastics, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

✅ Skin and Health Benefits

● Helps in skin renewal, hydration, and anti-aging, making it a valuable cosmetic ingredient.

05

Conclusion

Lactic acid丨50-21-5 is a multi-functional organic acid used in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, biodegradable plastics, and agriculture. Its natural, biodegradable, and antimicrobial properties make it an essential eco-friendly compound for industrial and consumer applications.

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