Disodium adipate

Disodium adipate (CAS 7486-38-6), also designated E356, is the disodium salt of adipic acid used commercially as a pH buffer and acidulant. It provides mild, controlled acidification and buffering capacity. This chemical is utilized in food, personal care, and pharmaceutical formulations where precise pH management is required. In processed foods and beverages, it functions as a buffering agent and flavor modifier.

It contributes a clean, mild tartness without the sharpness associated with citric or phosphoric acid. Personal care formulators incorporate it into creams, lotions, and cleansing products to stabilize pH levels. This stabilization is essential for skin compatibility and preservative efficacy. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a buffering excipient in oral and topical formulations where consistent pH is critical.

Maintaining pH is vital to active ingredient stability. It also appears in specialty food applications such as gelatin desserts and powdered drink mixes where controlled acidity release is a requirement. Disodium adipate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule. Food-grade material conforming to E356 specifications is the primary commercial form, with supply aligned to FCC standards.

The material also meets EU food additive standards for global distribution. Pharmaceutical-grade material meeting USP or Ph.Eur. excipient requirements is available for regulated applications.