Magnesium sulfate

Magnesium sulfate (CAS 7487-88-9), commonly known as Epsom salt and approved as food additive E518, is an inorganic mineral salt sourced across food, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and industrial markets. It functions primarily as a nutrient source, processing aid, and stabilizer depending on the application sector. In agriculture, it corrects magnesium and sulfur deficiencies in soil and foliar spray programs.

This directly improves crop yield and quality for commodity growers. Food and beverage manufacturers use it as a firming agent and magnesium fortification source in products such as tofu and brewing water adjustment. It is also utilized in mineral-enriched beverages. Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical formulators incorporate it as an active ingredient in laxative preparations and electrolyte formulations for various medical uses.

In personal care, it is a functional bath soak ingredient and also used in cosmetic formulations where ionic mineral content affects texture and stability. Magnesium sulfate is supplied as anhydrous powder or crystals. The heptahydrate form is the most commercially prevalent. Recognized grades include USP, BP, Ph. Eur., FCC, and technical grade, each targeting distinct end-use requirements for global manufacturers.

Bulk agricultural and industrial supply is typically available in heptahydrate granules or powder. Pharmaceutical and food grades carry tighter purity and heavy metal specifications to ensure safety and compliance.