Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) CAS 59-30-3

Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) – Essential Vitamin for Cell Growth and Genetic Material Formation

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 59-30-3

• Molecular Formula: C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆

• Molecular Weight: 441.40 g/mol

• Synonyms: Vitamin B9, Folate, Folacin, Pteroylglutamic acid

• Appearance: Yellowish to orange crystalline powder

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; more soluble in alkaline solutions; insoluble in organic solvents

• Stability: Sensitive to light, heat, and acidic conditions; store in cool, dark, and dry place

Overview
Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that occurs naturally in various foods such as leafy green vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits, and fortified grains. It is essential for normal cell division, DNA synthesis and repair, and the formation of red blood cells. Because the human body cannot synthesize folic acid, it must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia and has been associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects in developing embryos. Therefore, folic acid fortification of foods and supplementation during pregnancy are critical public health measures.

Chemical Structure
Folic acid consists of three main components: a pteridine ring, para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), and glutamic acid. Its chemical structure can be represented as:
C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆

Physicochemical Properties

• Appearance: Yellowish crystalline powder

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; improved solubility achieved through special formulations (e.g., salts, cyclodextrins)

• Stability: Sensitive to light, high temperatures, and acidic or neutral conditions; alkaline conditions enhance solubility but may affect stability

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers, protected from light and moisture, at room temperature

Applications

• Dietary supplements: Widely used in multivitamin formulations, prenatal vitamins, and standalone folic acid supplements to meet daily requirements and prevent deficiency.

• Food fortification: Added to enriched cereals, bread, pasta, rice, and other grain products to improve public health outcomes (mandatory in many countries).

• Pharmaceuticals: Used for the treatment and prevention of megaloblastic anemia, as well as to reduce the risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy.

• Animal feed: Added to livestock and poultry feed to support growth, reproduction, and overall health.

• Research: Used in cell culture media and biochemical studies involving folate metabolism.

Key Benefits

• Supports DNA synthesis and cell division.

• Prevents megaloblastic anemia.

• Reduces the risk of neural tube defects in infants.

• Supports cardiovascular health by lowering homocysteine levels.

• Essential for normal growth, development, and immune function.

Recommended Intake

• Adults: 400 µg/day (400 mcg)

• Pregnant women: 600 µg/day

• Lactating women: 500 µg/day

• Always consult a healthcare professional for individualized recommendations.

Safety and Handling

• Folic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and non-toxic at recommended doses.

• High doses (>1 mg/day) may mask vitamin B12 deficiency; consult a healthcare provider before taking high-dose supplements.

• Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light, heat, and moisture.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask) when handling large quantities.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, and 25 kg containers (bags, drums, or boxes). Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), moisture content, heavy metals, and microbial contamination to ensure compliance with food, pharmaceutical, and supplement standards.