Sodium Lactate (CAS 72-17-3), typically supplied as a 60% aqueous solution, is the sodium salt of lactic acid produced via fermentation of sugar sources, utilized primarily as a broad-spectrum preservative and humectant in meat processing and cosmetic formulations. This clear, viscous Sodium 2-hydroxypropionate liquid functions as a potent bacteriostatic agent, significantly extending shelf life in processed meats by inhibiting Listeria and Salmonella growth while enhancing moisture retention. In the personal care sector, it acts as a superior Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) component, providing higher water-holding capacity than glycerin and serving as a critical E325 pH buffering agent in soaps and lotions. We provide this food-grade and cosmetic-grade material with competitive factory pricing to support food manufacturing and skincare production, ensuring bulk supply availability for IBC tote or drum delivery. Our facility accommodates customized specifications for concentration (60% standard) and optical purity (L-isomer), while every shipment is fully documented with MSDS, TDS, COA files to meet FDA and EU regulatory standards.
Sodium Lactate CAS 72-17-3
- CAS: 72-17-3
- Synonyms: Sodium 2-hydroxypropionate, Lactic acid sodium salt, E325, Sodium-L-lactate, 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid sodium salt
- Einecs: 200-772-0
- Molecular Formula: C3H5NaO3
- Grade: Food Grade / Cosmetic Grade / Pharma-Intermediate Grade (customizable)
- Package: 25 kg / 250 kg plastic drums (liquid) 25 kg bags / fiber drums (powder or concentrated form, if required)
Product Description
Sodium Lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, widely used as a humectant, buffering agent, and pH regulator in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial formulations. It offers excellent water-holding capacity, mild alkalinity, and good compatibility with a wide range of ingredients.
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Physicochemical Properties
| Item | Specification (Typical Values) |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid |
| Assay (as Sodium Lactate) | ≥ 60.0% (or as per contract specification) |
| Lactic Acid Content | Typically 80–90% basis of organic fraction |
| pH (20 °C, as supplied) | Approx. 6.5 – 8.5 |
| Density (20 °C) | Approx. 1.30 – 1.35 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Completely miscible with water |
| Odor | Slight, characteristic |
| Sodium Content | In accordance with stoichiometry |
| Heavy Metals | Meets food / cosmetic grade limits |
| Appearance of Solution | Clear, free from visible impurities |
Applications
1. Food Industry
- Preservation & Shelf-Life Extension:
Improves microbial stability in processed meat, poultry, and seafood; helps inhibit certain spoilage bacteria and supports cleaner labeling when used together with other preservation systems. - Flavor & Texture Adjustment:
Acts as a mild buffering agent to stabilize pH and support consistent taste in sauces, beverages and bakery products; contributes to better water retention in meat products, improving juiciness and yield. - Mineral Source:
Provides sodium and organic acid in a bioavailable form, suitable for fortified formulations where controlled sodium content is required.
2. Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Humectant / Moisturizing Agent:
Enhances skin hydration by binding water in the stratum corneum; commonly used in lotions, creams, serums, body washes, and liquid soaps. - pH Regulator & Buffer:
Helps maintain mild, skin-friendly pH in formulations, improving product stability and skin comfort. - Synergistic Performance Ingredient:
Can be combined with other moisturizers and active ingredients to build cost-effective, multifunctional personal care formulas.
3. Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
- Excipient / Buffering Agent:
Used as a component in certain pharmaceutical and healthcare preparations where organic salts are required for pH control and isotonicity adjustments (subject to local pharmacopeial and regulatory requirements).
4. Industrial & Technical Uses
- Corrosion Inhibitor Component:
Suitable for some industrial cleaning or metal treatment formulations where organic salts are preferred for environmental or performance reasons. - Intermediate / Process Aid:
Can be used as an organic sodium salt in various synthesis processes or as a process aid in fermentation and biochemical production lines.
Storage Conditions
- Store in tightly closed containers to avoid contamination and moisture uptake.
- Recommended storage temperature: 10–30 °C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, protected from freezing and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents and strong acids.
- Under proper storage conditions, the product maintains its quality for the shelf life specified on the COA / label. For detailed shelf-life information, please refer to the lot-specific documentation.
Safety Precautions
- Sodium Lactate is generally considered to have a favorable safety profile when handled according to standard industrial hygiene practices.
- Avoid direct contact with eyes and prolonged contact with skin. In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
- Do not ingest the industrial product directly. For accidental ingestion, rinse mouth and seek medical advice if necessary.
- Use appropriate PPE during handling: safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing as required by your plant’s safety rules.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in the working area to minimize exposure to aerosols or mists.
- Refer to the latest Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) for detailed information on hazards, first aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, and handling & storage recommendations.
For specific regulatory status in your country/region (food, cosmetic or pharma use), please contact our technical sales team.
📧 For COA, MSDS, TDS and quotation, please email: info@industrochem.com
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Sodium Lactate CAS 72-17-3?
A: Sodium Lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, also called sodium 2-hydroxypropanoate. It is commonly supplied as an approximately 60% aqueous solution and is used for moisture retention, pH buffering and preservation support in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. -
Q:
What is the molecular formula of Sodium Lactate?
A: The molecular formula of the sodium salt is C3H5NaO3, with a molecular weight of about 112.06 g/mol. The commercial liquid product is a solution of this salt, so the concentration should be specified when ordering. -
Q:
What are the main uses of Sodium Lactate?
A: It is used in meat and poultry processing, beverages, dairy products, sauces and dressings for preservation support and moisture retention. In personal care it acts as a humectant, moisturizer and pH buffer in products such as lotions, cleansers and hair care. -
Q:
Why is Sodium Lactate often supplied as a 60% solution?
A: The 60% aqueous solution is a practical, stable commercial form for food and cosmetic manufacturing. It is water-miscible and easy to dose, but buyers should confirm the target concentration, pH and purity for their formulation. -
Q:
Is Sodium Lactate suitable for food and cosmetic use?
A: Food-grade sodium lactate is widely used and is listed as E325 in the EU. Cosmetic and food grades should be selected for their intended market, with the L-isomer commonly preferred for food and personal-care applications. -
Q:
How should Sodium Lactate be stored and handled?
A: Store it in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers. Use appropriate liquid-chemical handling controls and PPE when transferring or dosing the material.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
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Sample & Supply
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Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.
