Sodium fumarate

Sodium fumarate is the sodium salt of fumaric acid, a key component in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. It is a white, crystalline compound that is highly soluble in water and has a variety of uses in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Chemical Properties

Sodium fumarate is a white, crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C4H2Na2O4. It is highly soluble in water, and its solubility increases with temperature. It has a melting point of 287 degrees Celsius and decomposes upon heating.

Production

Sodium fumarate can be produced by the neutralization of fumaric acid with sodium hydroxide. This reaction produces sodium fumarate and water. The resulting product is then purified and dried to obtain the final product.

Uses

Sodium fumarate is used in a variety of industries due to its unique properties.

Food Industry

In the food industry, sodium fumarate is used as a food additive. It acts as an acidity regulator, providing a sour taste and enhancing the flavor of foods. It is also used as a preservative due to its ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria.

Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical industry, sodium fumarate is used as an excipient in the production of pharmaceutical products. It acts as a filler and binder in tablet formulations, improving the physical properties of the tablets.

Safety

Sodium fumarate is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. However, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and diarrhea.

See Also

• Fumaric acid
• Sodium hydroxide
• Food additive
• Pharmaceutical industry

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