HA10094 Ferulic Acid

Ferulic Acid Description

Ferulic Acid (trans-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid) is an organic molecule known for its antioxidant activity and radical scavenging behaviour. Its high purity (≥99%) and precise chemical composition support consistent performance in food additive applications. The powder form facilitates easy blending into formulations, while its defined chemical structure ensures predictable interaction with other ingredients. These technical attributes make it valuable for controlling oxidative processes in various food systems.

Ferulic Acid Applications

1.       Food Processing
   - Used as an additive in food preservation to delay oxidative spoilage by neutralising free radicals; improves shelf life by reducing rancidity.

2.       Nutraceutical Formulations
   - Applied as an antioxidant in dietary supplements to maintain active ingredient stability; mitigates oxidative degradation during storage.

Ferulic Acid Packing

Ferulic Acid is packaged in sealed, moisture-resistant containers to prevent ambient air and humidity exposure. The powder is placed in foil-lined pouches and secondary corrugated boxes to avoid contamination and physical damage. Proper storage in a cool, dry environment is recommended to sustain its chemical stability. Custom packaging options, including bulk and laboratory-scale sizes, are available upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How is the purity of Ferulic Acid confirmed?
A1: Purity is verified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with ultraviolet (UV) detection. This analytical technique accurately quantifies Ferulic Acid content and detects trace impurities, ensuring consistency across production batches.

Q2: How does particle size distribution affect its performance in formulations?
A2: Particle size distribution plays a critical role in the dispersibility and solubility of the powder. A uniform fine particle size promotes even distribution in mixtures and consistent antioxidant activity, while larger particles may cause non-uniformity and reduce efficacy.

Q3: Can Ferulic Acid withstand high-temperature food processing?
A3: Thermal stability is evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). While Ferulic Acid maintains its structural integrity under moderate heat, prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures may initiate degradation, necessitating controlled processing conditions.

Additional Information

Ferulic Acid is extensively studied in materials science due to its antioxidant properties and its role in stabilising food formulations. Its chemical structure, characterised by a conjugated double bond system, contributes to its ability to scavenge free radicals. This stability underpins its use in preventing oxidative damage in lipids and other sensitive compounds.

The compound’s systematic application in food additives highlights its importance in extending product shelf life and maintaining nutritional quality. Ongoing research into its material properties continues to reveal beneficial interactions with other food components, furthering its utility in various industrial applications.