Ferrous Lactate

What Is Ferrous Lactate?

It is a chemical compound composed of iron and lactate. It is often used as a food additive and nutritional supplement to fortify products with iron. Iron is vital for various bodily functions, such as facilitating oxygen transportation, generating energy, and aiding in DNA synthesis.

Lactate is the salt of lactic acid, a compound naturally produced in the body during metabolism.

In food production, ferrous lactate powder is commonly used to fortify foods with iron, especially in products targeted towards individuals with iron deficiencies, such as infants, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions. It is used in various food products, including infant formulas, cereals, bread, and nutritional supplements.

Due to its stability and bioavailability, ferrous lactate powder is preferred over other iron supplements in specific applications. It is also less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects than other iron supplements like ferrous sulfate.

This compound is an important nutritional tool to help address iron deficiencies and promote overall health and well-being.

Made From

This compound is primarily synthesized from two key components: iron and lactic acid or its derivatives.

Iron, sourced from iron salts like ferrous sulfate or chloride, constitutes the metallic component essential for ferrous lactate production.

Conversely, lactic acid, a natural organic acid generated through the fermentation of carbohydrates by specific bacteria or lactate salts such as calcium lactate or sodium lactate, contributes to the lactate portion.

Through a controlled chemical reaction between these constituents, ferrous lactate is formed. This process entails meticulous synthesis under controlled conditions to ensure the Purity and quality of the resulting product.

Another Form: Ferrous Lactate Dihydrate

Ferrous Lactate Dihydrate and Ferrous Lactate are two related but different compounds. Ferrous Lactate Dihydrate contains two water molecules (dihydrate). It may affect its solubility and stability. It may have a low solubility in water and is almost insoluble in alcohol. Ferrous Lactate usually refers to the anhydrate form, which contains no bound water molecules.

Ferrous Lactate VS Ferrous Sulfate

Both are forms of iron supplement ingredients used to address iron deficiencies in individuals. However, their chemical composition, bioavailability, and potential side effects differ.

Ferrous lactate contains iron combined with lactate, whereas ferrous sulfate contains iron combined with sulfate.

One key difference between the two is their elemental iron content. Ferrous sulfate typically includes a higher concentration of elemental iron than ferrous lactate, meaning that smaller doses may be required for the same iron supplementation.

Another distinction is their bioavailability. Ferrous sulfate is often considered to have higher bioavailability, meaning that a more significant proportion of the iron is absorbed and utilized by the body compared to ferrous lactate. This higher bioavailability of ferrous sulfate may result in a more rapid improvement of iron levels in deficient individuals.

Yet, ferrous sulfate is inclined to induce gastrointestinal discomfort like constipation, nausea, and stomach upset more frequently than ferrous lactate. This iron supplement ingredient, on the other hand, is generally considered to be milder on the stomach and may be better tolerated by some individuals.

Specification Sheet Reference

General Ferrous Lactate Powder Production Process

1. Procure high-purity iron salts and lactic acid.
2. Mix iron salts with lactic acid in controlled conditions.
3. Remove impurities and byproducts via filtration or precipitation.
4. Evaporate excess moisture from the solution.
5. Reduce the dried product to a fine powder.
6. Test for Purity, particle size, and moisture content.
7. Store the powder securely to maintain quality.
8. Ensure proper conditions for transportation and storage.