Betaine
Description
Betaine (CAS 107-43-7), also known as glycine betaine and TMG (trimethylglycine), is a naturally derived amino acid derivative sourced primarily from sugar beet molasses. It functions as a humectant and osmoprotectant across personal care, food, pharmaceutical, and animal feed applications.
In cosmetic formulations, betaine improves moisture retention in skin and hair care products while reducing the irritation potential of surfactant-based systems. This makes it a key consideration for sensitive-skin product lines and high-end personal care formulations.
Food and nutraceutical manufacturers incorporate it as a methyl donor in dietary supplements targeting homocysteine metabolism and athletic performance. It is highly valued for its stability and ease of integration into various dry and liquid supplement formats.
In animal feed, it acts as a methyl group source and osmolyte that supports gut health and lean muscle deposition in poultry and swine production. This application helps producers maintain animal health and optimize growth rates in commercial farming environments.
Pharmaceutical formulators use it as an excipient and active ingredient in products addressing liver function and metabolic support. Its role as a metabolic regulator makes it a versatile component in specialized medical and therapeutic applications.
Betaine is supplied as a white crystalline powder and in anhydrous or monohydrate forms, with the anhydrous grade being the more common commercial specification. This ensures high purity and consistent performance across different manufacturing processes.
Food-grade and feed-grade certifications are standard, with USP and Ph.Eur. grades available for pharmaceutical procurement. These standards ensure the material meets rigorous safety and quality requirements for global distribution.
Bulk quantities are typically offered in 25 kg bags, with container-load volumes available for industrial buyers. Our logistics network ensures reliable supply chains for large-scale production needs across the chemical and food industries.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 293 °C (decomp) |
| Boiling Point | 218.95°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 1.195 x 10⁻³ g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C; Press: 750 Torr |
| Appearance | White cryst. powder |
| Color | colorless |
| Odor | bland |
| Form | Crystals or Crystalline Powder |
| Water Solubility | 160 g/100 mL |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.05Pa at 25℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4206 (estimate) |
| Log P | -3.1 at 20℃ |
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29239000 |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
glycine betaine|lycine|Abromine|Glycocoll betaine|Methanaminium, 1-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, inner salt|Methanaminium, 1-carboxy-N,N,N-trimethyl-, hydroxide, inner salt|α-Earleine|LYCIUM CHINENSE|TMG
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