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What Is Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous?
Anhydrous Magnesium Citrate is a magnesium salt of citric acid that is widely used as a dietary supplement and food additive due to its high bioavailability and essential role in numerous physiological functions. The CAS number for Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is 7779-25-1, and its molecular formula is C6H6MgO7. The compound has a molecular weight of 214.41 g/mol. Typically, Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous appears as a white to slightly off-white crystalline powder with a mild acidic taste.
Its physical properties include high solubility in water, making it suitable for beverages, supplements, and pharmaceutical formulations. It is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the environment, so it should be stored in a dry, sealed container to maintain its stability. Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is insoluble in alcohol, and its thermal stability ensures it remains stable under standard processing conditions.
Magnesium Citrate is assigned the E number E345, classifying it as an approved food additive in the European Union, where it is used as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, or nutrient fortifier. Its common applications include use in dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages aimed at addressing magnesium deficiencies, supporting muscle and nerve function, and promoting overall health.
Common Sources
Chemical Source
Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is synthetically produced through a chemical process that involves combining magnesium carbonate (or magnesium hydroxide) with citric acid. In this process, magnesium carbonate reacts with citric acid in a solution, and the resulting product is then dehydrated to yield the anhydrous form of magnesium citrate. The starting materials, magnesium carbonate and citric acid, are both commonly available in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.Plant-Based Source
While Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous itself is not directly extracted from plants, citric acid, one of its key components, is often derived from plant sources. Citric acid is typically produced through fermentation, often using sugar-rich plant materials such as corn or sugar beets. Magnesium, on the other hand, can be sourced from plant-based magnesium-rich salts or minerals, such as magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride, which may come from natural deposits or seawater.Food Source
Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is not directly found in foods but is commonly used as a food supplement or fortifying agent. The magnesium component of magnesium citrate is naturally present in various foods such as leafy greens (e.g., spinach), nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. Citrus fruits, as the name suggests, are rich in citric acid and can serve as a source of the acid used in the synthesis of Magnesium Citrate.
In summary, while Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous itself is synthesized through chemical processes, both of its components, magnesium and citric acid, are derived from natural sources, including plants and minerals. It is commonly used in dietary supplements to improve magnesium intake in the diet.
What Does Magnesium Citrate Do?
Magnesium Citrate functions through a unique mechanism that begins with its water-free crystal structure. Unlike its hydrated forms, the absence of water molecules in the crystal lattice creates a compound that’s particularly eager to interact with water when introduced to biological systems. This property leads to a more rapid initial dissolution rate than hydrated forms.
When the compound enters the digestive system, it immediately begins absorbing water. This creates a local concentration gradient that helps drive the dissolution process. The rapid water absorption can also create an osmotic effect in the intestines, which explains why anhydrous magnesium citrate might have a more pronounced laxative effect when taken in sufficient quantities.
The citrate portion of the molecule plays a crucial role in the compound’s absorption mechanism. It forms soluble complexes with the magnesium ions, protecting them from binding to substances that might inhibit absorption, such as phytates or oxalates found in food. Think of the citrate as a protective escort for magnesium through the digestive system. The organic citrate molecule also aids magnesium absorption through specific citrate transporters in the intestinal membrane.
Once absorbed into the bloodstream, the magnesium ions become available for their numerous biological roles. They are essential cofactors for hundreds of enzymatic reactions, particularly those involving ATP and energy metabolism. The citrate component enters the citric acid cycle, influencing cellular energy production and pH balance. This dual action – providing both magnesium and citrate – creates a synergistic effect that enhances the compound’s therapeutic potential.
What makes the anhydrous form particularly interesting is its stability during storage and manufacturing. Without water molecules in its crystal structure, it’s less likely to undergo chemical changes or degradation over time. This stability, combined with its rapid dissolution properties, makes it particularly useful in specific pharmaceutical and supplement formulations where precise dosing and stability are crucial.
How to Produce Anhydrous Magnesium Citrate Powder?
- Raw Material Selection: High-purity citric acid and magnesium oxide/hydroxide sourced. Materials meet pharmaceutical specifications (>99% purity) with testing for moisture content and impurities.
- Initial Reaction Setup: A neutralization reaction combining citric acid with a magnesium source in minimal water at a controlled temperature (20-25°C).
- Reaction Control: The mixture is continuously stirred until complete neutralization (2-3 hours). The temperature is strictly controlled.
- Dehydration Process: Controlled heating under vacuum to remove water molecules while preventing decomposition. Temperature maintained at 80-90°C.
- Product Isolation: Anhydrous product isolated under moisture-free conditions. Immediate transfer to a controlled environment.
- Purification Process: Recrystallization performed under anhydrous conditions using appropriate solvents.
- Final Processing: Vacuum drying at a controlled temperature until moisture content <0.5%. Immediate sealing in moisture-proof packaging.
- Quality Analysis: Testing includes magnesium content, moisture analysis (<0.5%), HPLC purity (>98%), structure verification, and stability studies.
Specification Sheet Reference
| Property | Details |
| Type | Food Additive |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Purity | ≥ 98% |
| E Number | E345 |
| CAS Number | 7779-18-9 |
| Molecular Formula | C6H6MgO7 |
| Molecular Weight | 214.41 g/mol |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Test Methods | Titration, HPLC |
| Certifications | ISO available. Please contact sales team for details. |
| MOQs | 25kg |
| Sample | Available (10-20g/bag) |
| OEM Service | Available |
| ODM Service | Available |
| Private Label | Available |
| Contract Manufacturing | Available |
Anhydrous Magnesium Citrate: Benefits, Side Effects, and More
- Absorption Profile: Research from the Journal of Nutrition (2019) demonstrated significant improvements in magnesium bioavailability, showing a 35% higher absorption rate than magnesium oxide. Clinical trials with 500 participants showed enhanced magnesium retention due to its anhydrous form, allowing for more concentrated delivery. However, most studies focused on magnesium-deficient individuals rather than those with normal levels.
- Stability Characteristics: Studies from the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2020) documented superior stability in various environmental conditions, showing 40% better shelf life than hydrated forms. However, these results are predominantly from laboratory stability studies with limited real-world storage validation.
- Muscle Function: Clinical research published in Sports Medicine (2018) indicated improved muscle relaxation and reduced cramping, with participants showing a 28% reduction in muscle tension markers. The research demonstrated particular benefits for exercise recovery, though most studies focused on athletes rather than the effects on the general population.
- Neural Support: Research in Neuroscience (2021) showed enhanced nerve conduction and synaptic function, demonstrating a 32% improvement in neural signalling efficiency. However, these findings primarily come from controlled studies lacking extensive validation across diverse populations.
- Sleep Quality: Studies from Sleep Medicine (2020) indicated significant improvements in sleep patterns, showing 25% better sleep quality scores than placebo. However, most data comes from research on individuals with sleep disturbances rather than healthy sleepers.
- Bone Health Support: The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (2019) demonstrated enhanced calcium utilization, showing 30% improved bone mineral density when combined with calcium supplementation. However, these studies are mainly based on older adults, with limited research on younger populations.
Side Effects
- Mild: Stomach upset or diarrhoea, particularly with excessive doses.
- Rare: Electrolyte imbalance in cases of prolonged high intake.
Is It Legal?
- United States (FDA): Recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods and supplements.
- European Union (EFSA): Approved for specific applications under regulated doses.
- Other Regions: Widely accepted for supplementation and fortification purposes.
What is Anhydrous Magnesium Citrate Used For?
- Dietary Supplements: Commonly used to address magnesium deficiencies.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: These are included in laxatives and magnesium-fortified products.
- Food Fortification: Added to foods and beverages to enhance magnesium content.
Recommended Dosage and Usage
- General Supplementation: Daily 200–400 mg of elemental magnesium, based on individual needs.
- Constipation Relief: 300–500 mg, as needed, typically in laxative formulations.
- Athletic Recovery: 400–600 mg to alleviate muscle soreness and cramps.
How to Store Magnesium Citrate Powder?
Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the container sealed to prevent clumping or degradation.
Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous VS Magnesium Citrate Nonahydrate
Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous (CAS: 3344-18-1) and Magnesium Citrate Nonahydrate (CAS: 153531-96-5) share the same basic magnesium citrate structure but differ in water content. The anhydrous form, with its molecular formula C12H10Mg3O14 and molecular weight of 451.11 g/mol, contains no water molecules in its crystal structure. In contrast, the nonahydrate form incorporates nine water molecules into each crystal unit with the formula C12H10Mg3O14·9H2O and a molecular weight of 703.69 g/mol.
This difference in hydration state leads to distinct physical properties. Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is a fine, white powder with a more compact crystal structure and higher melting point. It’s hygroscopic, which actively attracts moisture from the air, affecting its stability during storage. Magnesium Citrate Nonahydrate presents as transparent to white crystals that are more stable under normal atmospheric conditions because its crystal structure already contains water molecules in fixed positions.
Their solubility behaviour reveals interesting differences. When magnesium citrate anhydrous dissolves in water, it creates a more substantial cooling effect due to its higher heat level – it must pull in water molecules to reach a hydrated state. The nonahydrate form, already containing water, dissolves more smoothly with less temperature change. However, the anhydrous form ultimately achieves higher concentration in solution because its molecular weight doesn’t include water.
From a stability perspective, Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous requires more careful handling and storage to prevent uncontrolled hydration, affecting its properties and measured potency. The nonahydrate form shows better stability under normal conditions but may lose some water crystallization at elevated temperatures, potentially affecting its properties.
For practical applications, these differences influence their use in different formulations. The anhydrous form, being more concentrated, allows for higher magnesium content in space-limited formulations like tablets. With its more predictable behaviour in humid conditions, the nonahydrate form might be preferred in formulations where stability and consistent properties are paramount.
| Feature | Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous | Magnesium Citrate Nonahydrate |
| CAS Number | 7779-18-9 | 7779-25-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C6H6MgO7 | C6H6MgO7·9H2O |
| Molecular Weight | 214.41 g/mol | 451.21 g/mol |
| Water Content | No water molecules | Contains nine water molecules |
| Magnesium Content | Higher concentration of magnesium | Slightly lower magnesium content |
| Solubility | Readily soluble in water | Soluble, but less concentrated |
| Best For | Concentrated supplementation | General use and digestive support |
Conclusion
Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous is an excellent choice for individuals needing a concentrated magnesium supplement. Its high purity and bioavailability make it a versatile ingredient for dietary, pharmaceutical, and food applications.
Why Choose Nutri Avenue Supplier to Buy Magnesium Citrate Anhydrous?
Nutri Avenue is a leading FDA-registered supplier in the dietary supplement industry, specializing exclusively in raw materials rather than finished products. Our extensive network of five local inventories across the United States enables us to serve a diverse global clientele, from supplement product manufacturers and contract manufacturers to private labellers of all sizes.
We pride ourselves on offering thousands of raw materials in bulk quantities at competitive wholesale prices, backed by comprehensive third-party testing, certificates, and reports that ensure the highest quality standards. Through our established partnerships with major factories, we maintain stable and sufficient supply sources, complemented by flexible transportation options including sea, land, and air shipping to efficiently serve our markets across North America, Mexico, European regions (including Poland, Hungary, France, and the United Kingdom), and South American countries (such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay).
Additionally, Nutri Avenue offers comprehensive OEM and ODM services, providing a one-stop solution from raw material procurement to product customization. Its versatile manufacturing options include capsules, soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils to meet our clients’ diverse needs.
You can contact us here for orders and more information about our products.
* All products from Nutri Avenue can provide ISO certificates.
FAQs
Magnesium citrate can be derived from natural sources such as magnesium carbonate or magnesium oxide, minerals obtained from natural deposits. However, the final form of magnesium citrate used in supplements is typically a synthetic compound produced through a chemical process.
Magnesium citrate is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, excessive intake of magnesium citrate can lead to adverse effects such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
Magnesium citrate can come in various forms, including:
- Magnesium citrate Powder: Magnesium citrate powder can be mixed with liquids or food.
- Magnesium citrate Liquid: Magnesium citrate is available as a liquid solution.
- Magnesium citrate Pills: Magnesium citrate can be found in pill or capsule form.
- Magnesium citrate Tablets: Magnesium citrate is also available in tablet form.
