Dextrose Anhydrous (CAS Number: 50-99-7)

Dextrose Anhydrous (CAS Number: 50-99-7) is a crystalline, purified, and anhydrous (water-free) form of glucose. It's widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical industries as a sweetener, energy source, and stabilizer.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Chemical Name: Dextrose Anhydrous (D-glucose anhydrous)
• CAS Number: 50-99-7
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₆
• Molecular Weight: 180.16 g/mol
• Appearance: White, odorless, crystalline powder
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol
• pH (5% Solution): Generally around 4.0-6.5

Applications and Uses

Dextrose anhydrous is versatile and commonly used across multiple industries:

• Food and Beverage Industry: Used as a sweetener, energy source, and fermentation substrate. Common in baked goods, candies, beverages, and other processed foods due to its quick energy supply and mild sweetness.
• Pharmaceuticals: Employed as a bulking agent, stabilizer, or excipient in tablets, syrups, and injectables. It’s especially used in intravenous (IV) solutions to provide immediate energy, particularly in medical situations requiring fast glucose infusion.
• Medical Uses: Administered to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and to replenish energy in individuals who cannot eat or drink. Dextrose anhydrous is often used in IV solutions for rehydration and energy restoration.
• Industrial Applications: Used as a reducing agent in certain industrial processes and as a fermentation substrate in bioprocesses.

Advantages

• High Solubility and Stability: Dissolves readily in water and has a long shelf life when stored properly.
• Immediate Energy Source: Rapidly absorbed and metabolized by the body, making it suitable for fast-acting energy needs.
• Neutral Sweetness: Adds sweetness without overpowering flavors, making it a preferred choice in various food products.

Health and Safety Information

• Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS): Approved for use as a food additive and considered safe at recommended levels.
• Caloric Content: Provides 4 kcal per gram, similar to other carbohydrates. Overconsumption may contribute to elevated blood sugar levels and excess calorie intake.
• Potential Side Effects: Ingesting large amounts can lead to blood sugar spikes, which may be problematic for people with diabetes or those sensitive to glucose intake.
• Handling Precautions: Generally considered safe to handle, but protective gloves and eye protection are recommended to prevent skin and eye contact in industrial settings.

Storage and Stability

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture, as it can clump or degrade in high humidity.
• Shelf Life: Typically has a long shelf life if kept dry and sealed; usually about 2-3 years.

Disposal Considerations

Dextrose anhydrous can be disposed of in regular waste or wastewater according to local regulations, as it is non-toxic and biodegradable.