Overview
Levulinic acid (CAS 123-76-2 ), also known as levulic acid, is a short-chain keto acid derived from biomass that has gained commercial traction as a platform chemical for food and cosmetic applications.
Registered under FEMA 2627 , it functions as a flavoring acidulant, pH buffer, and mild preservative across multiple formulation types. It is a versatile ingredient for specialty chemical applications.
In food and beverage formulations, it contributes a mild, slightly caramel-like acidic note and supports pH regulation in sauces, dairy analogs, and processed foods. It is highly valued for its stability.
Personal care formulators use it as a humectant and pH-adjusting agent in skin creams, lotions, and leave-on treatments. Controlled acidity in these products also supports preservation efficacy and skin health.
It acts as a synergist with conventional preservative systems, allowing reduced concentrations of harsher biocides in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic products. This makes it ideal for clean-label formulations.
Flavor houses also source it as a building block for synthesizing levulinate esters used in fragrance and flavor compositions. Its chemical structure allows for diverse reactions in industrial synthesis.
Levulinic acid is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline solid or in liquid form depending on purity and grade. Food-grade material conforming to FCC specifications is available for flavoring.
Technical-grade product is also offered for industrial and specialty chemical synthesis. Our supply chain ensures consistent quality and availability for large-scale manufacturing and laboratory requirements.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 33 °C |
| Boiling Point | 245-246 °C |
| Density | 1.14 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 280 °F |
| Appearance | clear yellowish liquid after melting |
| Color | Clear yellow |
| Odor | at 100.00 %. sweet caramel acidic acetoin buttery |
| Form | Liquid After Melting |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water ( 675g/L at 20°C). |
| Vapor Pressure | 1 mm Hg ( 102 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.439(lit.) |
| Log P | -0.498 |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P272 Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P333+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29183000 |
| Storage Class | 13 - Non Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 123-76-2
- EC Number
- 204-649-2
- Mol. Weight
- 116.11
- HS Code
- 29183000
- Category
- Flavors & Fragrances