Magnesium Stearate - What It Is & Where It Is Used?

Magnesium stearate is a very popular chemical compound that has found its usage across varied industries. As of today, this chemical is used predominantly in the cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical industries. It is mainly used in its powdered form in industries for the manufacture of a variety of products.

So, if you are intrigued to know about magnesium stearate uses and applications, give this detailed guide a thorough read!

What Is Magnesium Stearate?

Also known as octadecanoic acid, magnesium stearate remains a solid, light white powder when kept at room temperature. This chemical compound is an FDA-approved inactive ingredient, existing in salt form. It can be derived either from animal or plant sources. It has a characteristic taste and a faint odor.

Magnesium stearate is formed when a bond is formed between a magnesium ion and stearate molecules. Stearate is derived from stearic acid, which is a long-chain saturated fat, majorly found in various plant and animal-based sources including salmon, palm oil, eggs, coconut oil, chicken, beef, cocoa butter, and dairy products.

Magnesium stearate is usually added to many cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food items. It is used as a key lubricant in vitamins and medications.

How Is Magnesium Stearate Manufactured?

Magnesium stearate is formed as a by-product of the reaction between magnesium salts and sodium stearate. It may also be formed when magnesium oxide is treated with stearic acid. The sodium stearate used in the production of magnesium stearate may either be derived from plant-based or animal-based sources.

Magnesium Stearate Uses

Magnesium stearate is used primarily in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products, beauty products, and food items. Here is a detailed discussion of :

• Pharmaceutical Industry

Pharmaceutical companies refer to magnesium stearate as a “flow agent”. Magnesium stearate powder helps in preventing the essential ingredients of capsules from sticking to each other. It also keeps the medicines from sticking to the machines, during the process of manufacture. The powder also helps in enhancing the quality and consistency of the tablets and capsules.

• Cosmetics Industry

Magnesium stearate plays a great role in the manufacture of various cosmetics items. This powder serves as an efficient colorant, an anti-caking agent, and a bulking agent. Magnesium stearate is majorly used in common cosmetic products like lipsticks, eyeliner, foundations, eyeshadow, deodorants, mascara, blushers, and face powders. It is also used in a number of hair care and styling products.

• Food Industry

Magnesium stearate has been in use in the food industry for many years now. It is used as an excellent thickener, binder, and emulsifier. This powder also serves as an effective lubricant and antifoaming and anti-caking agent. Magnesium stearate is used in a number of dietary supplements, spices, baking ingredients, chewing gum, and confectionery items.

Where to Buy Magnesium Stearate From?

Now that you have in-depth knowledge about magnesium stearate uses, you may be curious about where to get it from. You can get magnesium stearate powder online at affordable prices from Green Jeeva. You can place bulk orders and purchase magnesium stearate for industrial purposes.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are not intended to cure any disease or comply with any health benefits. This is solely for information purposes. Please consult your doctor/health practitioner before consumption of the product. Although we take efforts to keep our website informative, we do not guarantee any medical benefits.