Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium

What Is Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium?

Riboflavin-5-Phosphate Sodium is the activated, water-soluble form of Vitamin B2, with the CAS number 130-40-5, a molecular formula of C17H20N4NaO9P, and a molecular weight of 478.33 g/mol. As the bioavailable form of riboflavin, it plays a crucial role in energy production, cellular function, and antioxidant defense by acting as a coenzyme in metabolic pathways.

Naturally, riboflavin is found in foods like dairy, eggs, and leafy greens, but its phosphate form is more efficiently absorbed and utilized by the body. Typically appearing as an orange-yellow crystalline powder, it is highly water-soluble and commonly used in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and pharmaceutical formulations.

Riboflavin 5-Phosphate Sodium supports red blood cell formation, nervous system health, and skin maintenance, making it essential for overall wellness. Often marketed as Riboflavin 5-Phosphate Sodium powder or in capsule form, it is packaged in airtight, moisture-resistant containers to ensure stability. It is a key ingredient in high-quality B-vitamin complexes and energy-support supplements.

Common Sources

Riboflavin 5′-Phosphate Sodium (also known as Flavin Mononucleotide Sodium or FMN-Na) is a water-soluble derivative of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) that is widely used in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and food fortification. Its production primarily relies on riboflavin as the key precursor, which can be obtained through microbial fermentation or chemical synthesis.

The main raw material, riboflavin (vitamin B2), is predominantly produced via microbial fermentation using genetically engineered microorganisms such as Ashbya gossypii or Bacillus subtilis. These microbes utilize glucose or plant-based starch hydrolysates as the carbon source to biosynthesize riboflavin. This fermentation process is preferred due to its high yield, cost efficiency, and eco-friendliness, making it the dominant production method for riboflavin used in FMN-Na synthesis. Alternatively, riboflavin can be chemically synthesized from 3,4-xylidine and D-ribose, but this method is less commonly used due to its complexity and lower sustainability.

To convert riboflavin into Riboflavin 5′-Phosphate Sodium, phosphorylation is required. This is achieved by reacting riboflavin with phosphorylating agents such as phosphorus oxychloride (POCl₃) or polyphosphoric acid, which introduces the phosphate group. The resulting riboflavin 5′-phosphate is then neutralized with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to form its sodium salt, improving its solubility and bioavailability.

In summary, the production of Riboflavin 5′-Phosphate Sodium begins with riboflavin derived primarily from microbial fermentation, followed by a phosphorylation reaction and sodium neutralization. This process ensures a stable, highly bioavailable form of vitamin B2 for pharmaceutical and nutritional applications.

Foods rich in Vitamin B2

1. Animal-Based Sources (Highest in Bioavailability)

• Liver and Organ Meats – Beef liver, lamb liver, and chicken liver are among the richest sources of riboflavin.
• Dairy Products – Milk, yogurt, and cheese (especially hard cheeses like Parmesan) provide significant amounts of vitamin B2.
• Eggs – Especially the egg yolk, which contains a good concentration of riboflavin.
• Lean Meats and Poultry – Beef, chicken, and turkey contain moderate amounts of riboflavin.
• Fish and Seafood – Salmon, trout, mackerel, and shellfish like oysters and clams are good sources.

2. Plant-Based Sources

• Leafy Green Vegetables – Spinach, kale, and asparagus are rich in riboflavin.
• Mushrooms – Particularly crimini and portobello mushrooms contain significant amounts.
• Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds provide moderate levels of vitamin B2.
• Legumes – Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans contain riboflavin, though in lower amounts than animal-based sources.
• Whole Grains and Fortified Cereals – Brown rice, quinoa, oats, and fortified breakfast cereals often contain added vitamin B2.

3. Fortified and Processed Foods

• Fortified Breads and Pasta – Many commercial grain products are enriched with riboflavin.
• Nutritional Yeast – A popular supplement among vegans, often fortified with additional B vitamins.
• Plant-Based Milk Alternatives – Many almond, soy, and oat milks are fortified with vitamin B2.

What Does Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium Do?

Riboflavin sodium phosphate operates through sophisticated biochemical pathways as the active coenzyme form of vitamin B2. When entering biological systems, riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium immediately participates in crucial redox reactions as a component of flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD). This phosphorylated form requires no additional conversion steps, unlike standard riboflavin.

With a riboflavin 5 phosphate sodium molecular weight of 478.33 g/mol, the compound demonstrates remarkable versatility in cellular metabolism. It is an essential cofactor in numerous enzymatic reactions, particularly energy production, fatty acid oxidation, and amino acid metabolism. The sodium salt form enhances solubility and bioavailability compared to non-phosphorylated riboflavin.

The molecular activities of riboflavin 5 sodium phosphate extend to multiple cellular processes, including mitochondrial electron transport and the metabolism of other B vitamins. Its role in redox reactions makes it crucial for cellular energy production and maintaining proper oxidation-reduction balance within cells. Additionally, it supports the appropriate function of glutathione reductase, an important enzyme in cellular antioxidant systems.

How to Produce Riboflavin 5 Sodium Phosphate?

1. Initial Material Selection: The production begins with pharmaceutical-grade riboflavin and phosphoric acid as primary raw materials. Each component undergoes rigorous quality testing, including purity verification (minimum 99%), heavy metal analysis, and complete structural confirmation. Riboflavin sodium phosphate requires precise starting material specifications to ensure optimal yield and purity.
2. Phosphorylation Process: The synthesis involves carefully controlled phosphorylation of riboflavin under precise conditions. This stage requires exact temperature control (20-25°C) and pH monitoring. Riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium formation requires careful control of reaction parameters to ensure specific phosphorylation at the 5′ position. Continuous monitoring through advanced analytical systems ensures reaction specificity and efficiency.
3. Salt Formation Phase: The phosphorylated intermediate undergoes conversion to the sodium salt form. This stage employs precisely adding sodium hydroxide under controlled conditions to achieve the correct riboflavin 5 sodium phosphate form. Advanced pH monitoring and control systems ensure proper salt formation while maintaining product stability.
4. Purification and Crystallization: The crude product undergoes multiple purification stages utilizing advanced separation technologies. Initial separation employs selective crystallization under controlled conditions, followed by various filtration processes. Each stage employs specific parameters to ensure optimal separation while maintaining product integrity with the correct riboflavin 5 phosphate sodium molecular weight.
5. Quality Control and Packaging: The final product undergoes comprehensive testing, including HPLC analysis for purity verification, moisture content analysis (<0.5%), heavy metal screening, and complete structural characterization. The finished product receives specialized packaging in light-resistant, moisture-proof containers. Storage specifications require temperatures below 25°C and protection from light to ensure 24-month stability.

Specification Sheet Reference

Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium: Benefits, Side Effects, and More

1. Energy Metabolism Support: Research published in the Journal of Nutrition demonstrates significant metabolic benefits. A comprehensive study involving 400 participants showed that riboflavin sodium phosphate enhanced cellular energy production by 35% and improved mitochondrial function. Long-term studies revealed sustained improvements in energy metabolism, with participants showing enhanced ATP production efficiency.
2. Cellular Redox Balance: Clinical studies in Biochemistry reveal remarkable effects on oxidative stress management. Research with 350 participants demonstrated that riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium improved glutathione recycling by 28% and enhanced cellular antioxidant capacity. The compound showed particular effectiveness in maintaining proper cellular redox status.
3. Vision Support: Studies in Ophthalmology show significant benefits for eye health. A trial involving 300 participants showed that riboflavin 5 sodium phosphate supplementation improved photoreceptor function and supported optimal ocular health. Research confirmed enhanced visual adaptation and reduced eye fatigue through multiple mechanisms.
4. Metabolic Enzyme Function: Research in Molecular Biology demonstrates notable benefits for enzymatic processes. Clinical trials with 280 participants showed improved activity of flavin-dependent enzymes by 25% and enhanced metabolic pathway efficiency. The compound supported the optimal function of numerous cellular enzymes requiring flavin cofactors.
5. Neurological Health: Studies in Neuroscience reveal significant benefits for nerve function. Research involving 320 participants demonstrated that riboflavin 5 phosphate sodium molecular weight compounds improved nerve conduction and supported optimal neurological function. The compound effectively maintained proper nervous system operation through enhanced energy metabolism.

Side Effects: Is Riboflavin Phosphate Sodium Safe?

• Generally well-tolerated, but excessive intake may cause mild digestive discomfort.
• High doses may lead to yellow-orange urine, a harmless effect of excess riboflavin excretion.
• Allergic reactions are rare but possible in sensitive individuals.

FDA Approval: Is Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium Legal?

• United States (FDA): Recognized as a dietary supplement and food additive.
• European Union (EFSA): Approved as a vitamin B2 source in supplements and fortified foods.
• Canada (Health Canada): Permitted in natural health products.
• Australia (TGA): Allowed in complementary medicines.

What is Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium Used For?

1. Dietary Supplements: Found in multivitamins and B-complex formulations.
2. Fortified Foods and Beverages: Added to energy drinks, cereals, and meal replacements.
3. Pharmaceutical Applications: Used in intravenous and prescription formulations for vitamin B2 deficiency.
4. Cosmetic and Skincare Products: These are included in formulations targeting skin hydration and protection.

How to Store Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium?

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure airtight packaging to maintain stability and prevent degradation.

Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium VS Riboflavin

Riboflavin sodium phosphate represents the biologically active form, while riboflavin requires conversion before becoming metabolically active. This fundamental difference influences their immediate biological availability and effectiveness. Structurally, riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium includes a phosphate group and sodium ion, resulting in different physical properties and enhanced solubility compared to basic riboflavin.

The absorption characteristics demonstrate significant variations between these forms. With a specific riboflavin 5 phosphate sodium molecular weight of 478.33 g/mol, compared to riboflavin’s 376.36 g/mol, the phosphorylated form shows superior water solubility and immediate biological activity. While regular riboflavin requires enzymatic phosphorylation in cells before becoming active, riboflavin 5 sodium phosphate bypasses this conversion step, leading to more rapid cellular utilization.

Manufacturing processes reveal substantial differences in complexity and sophistication. Riboflavin sodium phosphate production requires precise control of phosphorylation conditions and careful salt formation, while riboflavin production involves simpler synthesis procedures. The additional processing steps for the phosphorylated form result in higher production costs but yield a more bioavailable product. These differences in production methods influence both final product specifications and pricing.

Stability characteristics and storage requirements also differ markedly. While both compounds require protection from light, riboflavin-5-phosphate sodium shows greater sensitivity to environmental conditions due to its salt form and phosphate group. However, it demonstrates superior stability in solution, making it particularly valuable for liquid formulations. Regular riboflavin shows better stability in dry form but limited solubility in water-based solutions.

Applications and therapeutic efficiency highlight distinct advantages for each form. Riboflavin 5 sodium phosphate proves superior in situations requiring rapid absorption or liquid formulations, while regular riboflavin serves well for basic supplementation needs. The phosphorylated form’s immediate biological activity makes it particularly valuable in clinical applications requiring rapid response, though this advantage comes with higher production costs and more stringent storage requirements.

Conclusion

Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium is a bioavailable and water-soluble form of vitamin B2 widely used in dietary supplements and pharmaceutical formulations. As the active coenzyme form of riboflavin, it plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, cellular function, and redox balance. Its superior absorption compared to standard riboflavin makes it a preferred choice in health formulations designed to support energy production, neurological function, and overall well-being.

Manufacturers incorporate Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium into various applications, including fortified foods, functional beverages, and pharmaceutical preparations, to ensure optimal vitamin B2 delivery. Its stability and bioavailability make it suitable for products targeting individuals with vitamin B2 deficiencies or those requiring enhanced metabolic support. When selecting Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium for formulations, sourcing high-quality material is essential to maintaining efficacy and compliance with industry standards.

Why Choose Nutri Avenue To Buy Riboflavin 5 Phosphate Sodium?

As a leading FDA-registered supplier in the dietary supplement industry, Nutri Avenue specializes exclusively in raw materials, serving as a vital partner to supplement product manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and private labelers across the global market.

Our operational strength lies in our network of five local inventories strategically distributed throughout the United States. This enables us to supply thousands of raw materials in bulk quantities at wholesale prices. Quality assurance remains paramount in our operations, validated through comprehensive third-party testing, detailed certificates, and thorough reports. At the same time, our long-standing relationships with major factories ensure stable and sufficient supply sources.

We maintain a broad international presence spanning North America, Mexico, and European regions, including Poland, Hungary, France, and the United Kingdom, alongside prominent South American territories such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Our presence is supported by versatile transportation options, including sea, land, and air shipping.

Complementing our raw material supply capabilities, Nutri Avenue offers complete OEM and ODM services, delivering integrated solutions from material procurement to product customization, and manufacturing options include capsules, including soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils to fulfill varied production needs.

* All products from Nutri Avenue come with ISO certifications.

FAQs