Technical and cosmetic, food-grade lactic acid E270 - CAS 79-33-4

L(+)-lactic acid or 2-hydroxypropanoic acid is a natural alpha-hydroxy organic acid with the molecular formula C₃H₆O₃ found in many biochemical processes. Hydroxy acids are also known as fruit acids (AHA). It is a weak (pKa 3.9) and natural acid that is now recognized as a safer and more environmentally friendly ingredient.

Identified for the first time in milk and derived from the degradation of lactose, this compound is also present in wine, certain fruits and vegetables as well as in our muscles (lactic accumulation: the origin of cramps and muscle pain).

Produced in bulk by fermentation of beet sugar in the form of the enantiomer (S)-lactic acid (or L(+)-lactic acid), this product can be used in numerous applications, such as:

Applications:

Chemical industries, detergent:

• PH agent, acidifier,
• Descaler,
• Biocide, antibacterial agent (bacteriostatic)

Food industry, food additive E270

• antioxidant, acidifier or flavor enhancer,
• preservative
• in the form of sodium salt (E325), potassium (E326) and calcium (E327)

Cosmetics industry:

• PH regulator, acidifier,
• Humectant, moisturizer,
• Skin care agent, facilitates the removal of scales and dead skin (use in peeling)
• Adds shine to hair and helps eliminate dandruff.

Plastics industry and 3D Printing

• Precursor of the biodegradable plastic material polylactic acid (PLA), used in the manufacture of food-contact plastic bags or packaging, and polymers used in biodegradable surgical sutures.