Vitamin B9, Acidum Folicum, Folate, VB9, 59-30-3

Vitamin B9, Acidum Folicum, Folate, VB9, 59-30-3

Name: Folic Acid Raw Material, API
Synonyms: Vitamin B9, VB9, Acidum folicum, Folate
CAS Number: 59-30-3
Molecular Formula: C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆

Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9 or folacin, belongs to the B-complex family of water-soluble vitamins. It is converted by the body into folate, the biologically active form, which plays a crucial role in DNA and RNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and cell division. Since the human body cannot produce folic acid, it must be obtained through diet or supplementation.

Physical & Chemical Characteristics

• Appearance: Yellowish to orange crystalline powder

• Odor: Odorless

• Stability: Gradually darkens when heated

• Assay Types: 10%, 80%, 97.0–102.0%

• Grades Available:

  • Food Grade

  • Pharmaceutical Grade (API)

Biological Importance

• Essential for DNA and RNA synthesis

• Supports normal amino acid metabolism

• Required for cell division and blood formation

• Contributes to the normal function of the immune system

• Helps reduce fatigue and tiredness

Folate vs. Folic Acid

• Folate: The natural form of Vitamin B9 found in foods (e.g., leafy greens, legumes).

• Folic Acid: The synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods.

• Biochemistry: Folates include biologically active derivatives such as tetrahydrofolic acid, methyltetrahydrofolate (the primary circulating form), folinic acid, and pteroylglutamic acid.

Dietary Sources of Folate

• Vegetables: Spinach, kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, peas, beans

• Fruits: Oranges

• Animal Sources: Liver, kidney, poultry, shellfish

• Others: Fortified cereals, yeast, eggs, parsley, mint, soybeans, chickpeas, nuts, sesame seeds

Note: Folate is water-soluble, so boiling vegetables may cause nutrient loss. Steaming or microwaving is recommended to preserve Vitamin B9 content.

Health Benefits

• Supports normal amino acid synthesis

• Promotes healthy cell division and blood formation

• Reduces feelings of fatigue and tiredness

• Strengthens the immune system

• Pregnancy-specific benefit: Supplementation increases maternal folate levels, supporting fetal development and reducing the risk of neural tube defects.

Applications

• Food Industry: Fortification of cereals, beverages, and dietary supplements

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) in tablets, capsules, and injectables

• Animal Nutrition: Feed additive for livestock and aquaculture