Overview
Galactaric acid (CAS 526-99-8 ), also known commercially as mucic acid, is a naturally derived dicarboxylic acid obtained primarily from the oxidation of galactose or lactose. It functions as a chelating agent, pH buffer, and humectant across pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and water treatment applications.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it acts as a sequestrant and acidulant in tablet formulations, helping to stabilize active ingredients sensitive to metal ion interference. Water treatment formulators incorporate it to chelate calcium and magnesium ions, reducing scale formation in process systems.
In personal care products, its moisture-binding capacity supports humectant functionality in creams, serums, and leave-on treatments where sustained hydration is a formulation target. Food-grade applications include use as a buffering acid and mild chelating agent in processed food systems.
These food-grade systems often require controlled pH and metal sequestration to maintain product stability. Galactaric acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder and is available in technical and pharmaceutical-grade specifications for various industrial needs.
Purity levels typically range from 98% upward depending on the intended use and specific industry requirements. Buyers sourcing for regulated applications should confirm compliance documentation against relevant pharmacopeial or food-safety standards prior to procurement.
This includes verifying adherence to USP , BP , or EP standards where applicable for medicinal or high-purity uses. Ensuring these quality benchmarks are met is essential for maintaining consistency and safety in complex chemical formulations.
Contact us for supply of Galactaric acid
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 214-215 °C |
| Boiling Point | 269.65°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.5274 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | white to light beige fine crystalline powder |
| Color | White to Off-White |
| Form | Solid |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water. |
| Refractive Index | 1.5800 (estimate) |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+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. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+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 | 29181990 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 526-99-8
- EC Number
- 208-404-0
- Mol. Weight
- 210.14
- HS Code
- 29181990
- Category
- Organic Acids