L-histidine

L-Histidine (CAS 71-00-1), commonly abbreviated as His, is a proteinogenic amino acid sourced for use across pharmaceutical, nutritional, and cosmetic manufacturing. It functions primarily as a buffering agent, stabilizer, and nutritional building block in finished formulations. In biopharmaceutical manufacturing, His is the preferred buffering agent in monoclonal antibody and protein drug formulations, where it maintains pH stability and protects against aggregation during storage.

Nutritional supplement producers use it as an active ingredient in amino acid blends, sports nutrition products, and clinical nutrition formulas targeting muscle recovery and metabolic support. Food manufacturers apply it as a flavor precursor — FEMA 3694 — where it contributes to savory and meat-like taste profiles in processed and seasoned products.

In cosmetic formulations, it functions as a humectant and antioxidant stabilizer in skin care products, helping to protect active ingredients from oxidative degradation. L-Histidine is supplied as a white crystalline powder in both free base and monohydrochloride salt forms. Standard grades include USP, BP, Ph. Eur., and food-grade FCC.

The pharmaceutical grades are the most commonly specified for injectable and parenteral applications. Bulk supply is available in kilogram and metric ton quantities to meet both development-scale and commercial production requirements.