Magnesium Stearate
What you are buying
You are purchasing pharmaceutical grade Magnesium Stearate. The product is a very fine white powder with a soapy texture to provide lubrication. Packaging of the product is dependent on the quantity purchased, more information on this can be found on the packaing page.
Magnesium Stearate Uses
- Used primarily as a lubricant in capsule and tablet manufacture.
- Pharmaceutical formulations
- Cosmetics
- Foods.
Information on Magnesium Stearate
Magnesium stearate is the magnesium salt of stearic acid, which is chemically known as octadecanoic acid. Its chemical formula is (C18H35O2)2Mg. It is a white soapy powder with an alkaline pH. Magnesium stearate is obtained from stearic acid, which is mostly derived from plant sources. However, some manufacturers derive stearic acid from animal sources, pork included.
Its major use is in the industry as a lubricant, dusting powder, emulsifier, binder and paint and varnish drier. Magnesium stearate is used in the pharmaceutical drugs in order to bind tablets and make them smooth. It is also a common additive in several foods as it is cheaply available.
Magnesium stearate has been graded to be a safe chemical compound, with no side effects known. Several foods use magnesium stearate as an additive or preservative. Magnesium stearate is an effective emulsifier used in syrups, ketchups, sauces, etc. It is also used as an anti-caking agent in preparing certain foods. Confectionaries use magnesium stearate for binding candies, etc. Baby cosmetic powder contains magnesium stearate as it provides a softer texture than talcum powder.
