Calcium lactate

Calcium lactate is a calcium salt of lactic acid with the chemical formula C₆H₁₀CaO₆. It is commonly used in the food industry, medicine, and various industrial applications.

Chemical Properties

Calcium lactate is a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. It is formed by the reaction of lactic acid with calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide. The compound exists in several hydrated forms, the most common being the pentahydrate.

Uses

Food Industry

In the food industry, calcium lactate is used as a food additive to enhance the calcium content of various products. It is often added to fruit juices, dairy products, and baked goods. It is also used as a firming agent in canned vegetables and as a leavening agent in baking powder.

Medicine

In medicine, calcium lactate is used as a calcium supplement to prevent and treat calcium deficiency. It is also used in the treatment of conditions such as osteoporosis and hypocalcemia. Calcium lactate is preferred in some cases because it is more easily absorbed by the body compared to other calcium salts.

Industrial Applications

Calcium lactate is used in various industrial applications, including as a corrosion inhibitor in concrete and as a component in biodegradable plastics. It is also used in the production of cheese and other fermented products.

Health Effects

Calcium lactate is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. However, excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of calcium in the blood, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and kidney stones.

Related Pages

• Calcium
• Lactic acid
• Calcium carbonate
• Calcium hydroxide
• Food additive
• Calcium supplement
• Osteoporosis
• Hypocalcemia
• Hypercalcemia