Calcium bis(4-O-(beta-D-galactosyl)-D-gluconate) is a calcium salt that combines a gluconic acid derivative with a galactose residue. Its structure allows for the binding of calcium ions in a way that increases solubility and may influence biological uptake. This material often appears as off-white or pale crystals, indicating its high purity, or as a fine, free-flowing powder. Sometimes manufacturers provide it in the form of flakes, pearls, or a crystalline solid, adjusting the physical state according to how it gets applied in industry or research.
The molecular formula stacks up as C24H38CaO22, which points to a high oxygen content owed to the multiple hydroxyl groups in gluconate and galactosyl structures. Each molecule brings together two beta-D-galactosyl-D-gluconate ligands bonded by calcium. With this arrangement, the calcium ions disperse within a network of carbohydrates and polyhydroxy groups, improving both stability and solubility compared to simple calcium gluconate. Its molecular weight sits notably high relative to other calcium salts, reflecting the bulky carbohydrate moieties. Chemically, it often remains stable in neutral environments but may hydrolyze under harsh acidic or basic conditions.
In various settings, this compound turns up as colorless or pale solid, either as powder, pearls or larger crystals. Density falls around the 1.8–2.2 g/cm³ range, slightly less than some simple mineral salts but heavier than organic acids. Solutions in water come out clear with moderate viscosity, reflecting strong hydration around both the sugar and calcium parts. Solid materials resist caking thanks to their crystalline structure, making them easy to handle for weighing and mixing. Packing density and flowability in powder form suit it well for blending in nutraceuticals or supplements. As a raw material, it stores well under dry and cool conditions, but exposure to moisture encourages lumping and slow degradation.
Industrial and pharmaceutical suppliers often grade this material for purity, limiting moisture, residual solvents, and heavy metals to extremely low thresholds. Specification sheets frequently require a minimum assay of 98%, with strict limits on loss on drying and insoluble matter to ensure quality in sensitive applications. The HS Code, typically 2918.16 for calcium salts of organic acids, matches international trade designations, helping set proper documentation for shipping. Batch records and COAs detail particle size, solubility, and assay data, which support compliance and transparency for buyers and authorities.
On the safety side, calcium bis(4-O-(beta-D-galactosyl)-D-gluconate) offers a profile familiar to most calcium organic salts. Dust handling calls for standard precautions: use of gloves, goggles, and dust masks to avoid irritation of the eyes, skin, or respiratory tract. At room temperature, the material stays chemically inert. Large quantities of inhaled powder may cause transient lung irritation, while accidental ingestion rarely causes harm unless in excessive doses. Chronic exposure or unintentional high dosing could tip the calcium balance in the body, risking hypercalcemia, especially in the context of other calcium supplements. Material Safety Data Sheets typically categorize it under non-hazardous, non-flammable materials, provided the guidelines for normal laboratory or industrial hygiene are followed. Avoid mixing with strong oxidants or acids during disposal, as reactions could yield unwanted byproducts or gases.
For manufacturers sourcing calcium bis(4-O-(beta-D-galactosyl)-D-gluconate), key raw materials include calcium hydroxide, gluconic acid derivatives, and galactose syrup. The synthesis targets precise junctions to link galactosyl units to the gluconate backbone, followed by controlled neutralization with calcium sources. The result: a product suitable for foods, supplements, cosmetics, and specialty pharmaceuticals. Nutraceutical sectors lean toward calcium forms with greater solubility and bioavailability, and the carbohydrate-linked structure supports both. Functional beverages and foods that require calcium fortification without a chalky taste often turn to this salt for its neutral sensory footprint and enhanced dispersion in liquids.
Reliable supply chains and quality checks play a huge role in safeguarding health and product quality. Adulteration or poor drying during production may introduce contamination or instability, so firms need regular quality validation using spectroscopy and chromatography. Routine safety drills and updated labeling standards make handling safer for warehouse staff and end users. Scientists exploring new applications could focus on improved synthesis routes for sustainable scalability, such as enzymatic conjugation or fermentation-based pathways. These developments could reduce the use of harsh chemicals, lower the environmental load, and foster a transparent, safer marketplace for advanced calcium solutions. By investing in steady education and clear communication about this novel calcium source’s strengths and risks, industries can stay ahead of regulatory and consumer demands in a fast-evolving nutritional and pharmaceutical landscape.
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