Trehalose
, , ,

Trehalose

Trehalose

  1. English Name: Trehalose
  1. Specification
    • Purity: ≥ 99% (HPLC)
    • Solubility: Highly soluble in water (68.9 g/100 mL at 25°C), slightly soluble in ethanol, insoluble in most organic solvents
    • Appearance – related: Loss on drying ≤ 0.5%, Heavy metals ≤ 5 ppm, Residual solvents ≤ 0.2%
    • Melting Point: 210 – 218°C (decomposes)
  1. Appearance
    • White crystalline powder or colorless crystals, odorless, with a sweet taste (about 45% as sweet as sucrose), not related to chocolate in color or aroma
  1. CAS NO.：6138 – 23 – 4
  1. Lead time: 3 – 7 Working Days
  1. Package
    • 25 kg/drum (polyethylene bag inside cardboard drum), 1000 kg/bulk bag
  1. Main Market
    • Global market, with significant demand in North America, Europe, Asia, mainly applied in food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and biotechnology industries
  1. Application Scenarios

Core Properties

  • Chemical Structure: A non – reducing disaccharide composed of two glucose units joined by an α,α – 1,1 – glucosidic bond. Its unique structure endows it with excellent stability and protective properties.
  • Key Features
    • Thermostability and Chemical Stability: Resistant to high temperatures, acids, and alkalis, maintaining its structure and properties under harsh conditions. This makes it suitable for various processing environments.
    • Moisture Retention: Can strongly bind water molecules, effectively preventing products from drying out and maintaining moisture content, which helps extend the shelf life of products.
    • Cell and Protein Protection: Stabilizes cell membranes and proteins, protecting them from denaturation and damage caused by factors such as dehydration, heat, and freezing. This property is crucial in many biological and industrial applications.
    • Antioxidant – like Effect: Indirectly reduces oxidative stress by protecting cells and biomolecules, contributing to the overall stability and quality of products.

Application Scenarios

1. Food and Beverage Industry

  • Preservative and Shelf – Life Extender
    • Added to baked goods like bread, cakes, and pastries (0.5 – 2% concentration) to prevent staling, maintain moisture, and extend the shelf life. For example, in frozen bread, trehalose helps keep the texture soft and fresh during long – term storage.
    • Used in dairy products such as yogurt and ice cream to improve texture, prevent ice crystal formation, and enhance flavor stability.
  • Flavor Enhancer and Sweetener
    • As a mild sweetener, it can be used alone or blended with other sweeteners in beverages, confectionery, and jams to adjust sweetness and enhance overall flavor. Its low – glycemic index also makes it attractive for sugar – free or low – calorie product formulations.
  • Freeze – Drying Aid
    • In the production of freeze – dried foods (such as fruits, vegetables, and instant coffee), trehalose protects the structure and flavor of the ingredients during the drying process, ensuring high – quality rehydration.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Moisturizer and Skin Protectant
    • Added to creams, lotions, and serums (1 – 5% concentration) to retain skin moisture, prevent dryness, and protect the skin from environmental stressors. It helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier and improves skin texture.
  • Stabilizer for Active Ingredients
    • Preserves the stability of sensitive ingredients like vitamins, enzymes, and plant extracts in cosmetics, preventing their degradation and ensuring product efficacy over time.

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

  • Drug Excipient
    • Used as an excipient in tablets, capsules, and injectable formulations to improve the stability of drugs, especially for heat – sensitive or moisture – sensitive medications. It can protect the active pharmaceutical ingredients during storage and enhance drug delivery.
  • Freeze – Drying of Biopharmaceuticals
    • In the production of biopharmaceuticals such as vaccines, antibodies, and enzymes, trehalose stabilizes the biological activity of these products during freeze – drying and long – term storage, ensuring their effectiveness.

4. Agriculture and Biotechnology

  • Plant Stress Resistance
    • Applied to crops as a foliar spray or soil treatment to enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought, heat, and cold. Trehalose helps protect plant cells and maintain physiological functions under stressful conditions, improving crop yield and quality.
  • Microorganism Preservation
    • Used in the preservation of microorganisms (such as probiotics, yeast, and bacteria) for industrial fermentation processes. It protects the viability of these microorganisms during storage and transportation, ensuring consistent performance in applications like food fermentation and biofuel production.

Detection Methods

  • High – Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
    • Column: Sugar – specific column (e.g., Aminex HPX – 87H), Mobile Phase: 5 mM sulfuric acid, Flow Rate: 0.6 mL/min, Detection Wavelength: Refractive index detector. This method accurately quantifies trehalose content in various samples.
  • Enzymatic Assay
    • Utilizes specific enzymes (such as trehalase) to break down trehalose into glucose, which can then be measured colorimetrically or through other analytical techniques. This method is suitable for quick and simple detection, especially in food quality control.
  • Thin – Layer Chromatography (TLC)
    • A preliminary screening method for identifying trehalose in samples. It separates trehalose from other sugars based on their different migration rates on a chromatographic plate, followed by visualization using appropriate reagents.

Source & Advantages

  • Production Methods
    • Mainly produced by fermentation using genetically engineered microorganisms or enzymatic synthesis from starch – based raw materials. These methods ensure high – yield and cost – effective production.
  • Versatile Applications
    • Its unique properties make it applicable across multiple industries, meeting diverse needs from product preservation to biological protection, presenting significant business opportunities.
  • Consumer Appeal
    • As a natural – occurring sugar, it is well – received by consumers, especially in the food and cosmetics industries, where there is a growing preference for clean – label and natural ingredients.
  • Regulatory Acceptance
    • Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) in many countries and regions, with clear regulations for its use in different industries, facilitating its widespread application.
Categories: , , ,

Trehalose: Nature’s Protective Sugar – Ultimate Guide by Zhonghong Tech

1. What is Trehalose?
Trehalose (α-D-glucopyranosyl α-D-glucopyranoside) is a naturally occurring, non-reducing disaccharide sugar composed of two glucose molecules. Renowned for its exceptional stabilizing properties, it acts as a bioprotectant for cells and biomolecules under stress conditions like dehydration, heat, and freezing. Its unique glycosidic bond (1,1-alpha linkage) confers high stability and low reactivity.

2. Product Source, Chemical Properties & Identifiers

  • Source: Primarily derived through enzymatic hydrolysis of starch (from corn, tapioca, potatoes) using trehalose synthase. Also found naturally in mushrooms, honey, algae, and yeast.

  • Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₂₂O₁₁

  • CAS Number: 99-20-7

  • Molecular Formula (MF): C12H22O11

  • Molecular Weight (MW): 342.30 g/mol

  • EINECS Number: 202-739-6

  • Key Properties:

    • White crystalline powder

    • Mild sweet taste (~45% sweetness of sucrose)

    • High glass transition temperature (Tg)

    • Low hygroscopicity

    • Excellent chemical & thermal stability

    • Non-reducing sugar (Maillard reaction inert)

    • High water retention capacity

3. What is the Best Trehalose? Key Considerations
The “best” trehalose prioritizes purity, origin, compliance, and intended application. Zhonghong Tech sets the benchmark:

  • Key Ingredient: High-Purity Anhydrous Trehalose (C12H22O11)

  • Primary Efficacy & Health Benefits (Compliant):

    • Biostabilization: Protects proteins, enzymes, cells, and lipids from denaturation during drying, freezing, and heating (crucial for pharmaceuticals & diagnostics).

    • Dental Health: Non-cariogenic – does not promote tooth decay (EFSA, FDA approved).

    • Energy Source: Provides sustained glucose release (4 kcal/g) with a low glycemic index (~70% of glucose).

    • Osmoprotection: Helps cells maintain integrity under osmotic stress.

    • Skin Hydration: Used in cosmetics for moisturizing and protecting skin barrier function.

    • Shelf-life Extension: Stabilizes flavors, colors, textures, and biologics in food & pharma.

  • Origin: Globally sourced non-GMO starch (e.g., EU corn, Asian tapioca), processed in China under GMP.

  • Usage: Food additive (baked goods, beverages, confectionery), Pharmaceutical excipient (lyophilization, biotherapeutics), Cosmetics (serums, creams), Research reagent. Typical incorporation: 1-10% w/w depending on application.

  • Target Audience: Food & Beverage Manufacturers, Cosmetic Formulators, Pharmaceutical Developers, Biotech Researchers, Nutraceutical Brands.

  • Daily Intake & Safety: Recognized as safe (GRAS by FDA, approved by EFSA, JECFA). No established ADI. Typical consumption is safe; high doses (>50g/day) may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.

  • Critical Considerations:

    • Purity: Essential for sensitive applications (e.g., diagnostics, injectables). Zhonghong guarantees >99.5%.

    • Specification Compliance: Must meet relevant pharmacopoeia (USP/Ph.Eur/JP) or food grade standards.

    • Residual Solvents/Enzymes: Rigorous control needed, especially for pharma.

    • Allergens: Ensure processing avoids major allergens if required (e.g., gluten-free).

  • Side Effects: Extremely rare at typical usage levels. Potential for mild laxative effect only with very high acute intake.

4. Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.: Pioneering Bioactive Compounds
Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. is a premier high-tech enterprise integrating agile R&D, collaborative innovation, integrated manufacturing, and global marketing. For 28 years, we’ve specialized in the extraction, isolation, purification, and application of potent plant-derived compounds, serving the chemical, material science, and life science sectors.

  • Core Expertise: Advanced extraction & purification of Natural Plant Extracts, Cosmetic Actives, Nutraceutical & Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Natural Pigments, and Plant-Based Sweeteners (like Trehalose).

  • Scientific Prowess (R&D Barriers):

    • Strategic alliances with 5 elite universities via Joint Research Labs.

    • Proprietary IP portfolio: 20+ patents in separation science and stabilization.

    • Globally unique natural compound library for discovery.

  • Manufacturing Excellence:

    • State-of-the-art analytics: U/HPLC, GC-MS, 600MHz Superconducting NMR, ICP-MS.

    • Purity standards exceeding industry norms by 20%+.

    • Strict adherence to cGMP, ISO 9001, ISO 22000 (food grade), and ICH Q7 (pharma grade) where applicable.

  • Global Reach: Trusted supplier network spanning 80+ countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Provides bespoke ingredient solutions to multinational pharmaceutical corporations, leading research institutions, and innovative FMCG brands.

5. Trehalose: Health Benefits & Applications

  • Health Benefits Mechanism:

    • Cellular Stress Resistance: Mimics natural anhydrobiosis, stabilizing biomolecules by replacing water hydrogen bonds (“water replacement theory”) and forming vitrified matrices.

    • Metabolic Pathway: Hydrolyzed slowly by trehalase enzyme in the small intestine, providing sustained glucose release.

    • Autophagy Modulation: Emerging research suggests potential roles in cellular cleanup processes (preclinical focus).

  • Application Scenarios:

    • Food Tech: Cryoprotectant (surimi, ice cream), Texture enhancer (baked goods, rice), Flavor/aroma stabilizer (dried fruits, beverages), Natural humectant.

    • Pharma/Biotech: Critical lyoprotectant for vaccines, antibodies, enzymes, and diagnostic reagents in freeze-drying (lyophilization). Stabilizer for liquid formulations.

    • Cosmeceuticals: Moisturizing agent, Enhancer of skin barrier function, Stabilizer for sensitive actives (Vit C, peptides).

    • Agriculture: Seed coating protectant, Biopesticide stabilizer.

    • Diagnostics: Stabilizer for enzymes and antibodies in test kits.

6. Production Process: Precision Purification
Zhonghong’s high-purity trehalose production involves:

  1. Enzymatic Conversion: Starch slurry → Maltooligosaccharides → Trehalose (using specific trehalose synthase).

  2. Decolorization & Deionization: Removal of pigments, ions, and proteins via activated carbon and ion-exchange resins.

  3. Crystallization: Controlled crystallization for uniform particle size distribution.

  4. Ultrafiltration/Nanofiltration: Advanced membrane separation for precise molecular weight cut-off.

  5. Spray Drying/Crystallization: Final drying under strict humidity control to yield anhydrous crystals.

  6. Polishing: Sieving to ensure consistent mesh size (e.g., 80-100 mesh).

7. Rigorous Quality Control (QC)
Zhonghong implements a multi-tiered QC strategy exceeding pharmacopeial standards:

  • Identity & Assay: Confirmed via HPLC-ELSD/RID (USP/Ph.Eur.) and FTIR. Purity guaranteed >99.5%.

  • Specific Rotation: Measured using polarimetry.

  • Residual Solvents: Monitored by Headspace GC-MS according to ICH Q3C guidelines.

  • Advanced Impurity Profiling: UPLC-QTOF-MS for trace-level unknown identification.

  • Stability Studies: Accelerated (40°C/75% RH) and long-term (25°C/60% RH) testing per ICH Q1A(R2).

  • Full Traceability: Batch-specific documentation from raw material to finished product.

8. Product Specification & Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Table 1: Comprehensive COA Specifications for Zhonghong Trehalose

CategoryItemSpecificationTest Method
PurityTrehalose (Anhydrous)≥ 99.5%USP/Ph.Eur. HPLC
Related SubstancesMeet USP/Ph.Eur.HPLC
Loss on Drying≤ 1.5%USP <731>
Specific Rotation [α]20D+197° to +201°USP <781>
Heavy MetalsArsenic (As)≤ 0.5 ppmICP-MS (USP <232>/ICH Q3D)
Lead (Pb)≤ 0.5 ppmICP-MS (USP <232>/ICH Q3D)
Cadmium (Cd)≤ 0.5 ppmICP-MS (USP <232>/ICH Q3D)
Mercury (Hg)≤ 0.1 ppmICP-MS (USP <232>/ICH Q3D)
PesticidesTotal Pesticides≤ 0.01 ppm (Individual)GC-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS (EU 396/2005)
≤ 0.05 ppm (Sum)
MicrobiologyTotal Aerobic Count≤ 1000 CFU/gUSP <61>, EP 2.6.12
Yeast & Molds≤ 100 CFU/gUSP <61>, EP 2.6.12
E. coliAbsent in 10gUSP <62>, EP 2.6.13
Salmonella spp.Absent in 25gUSP <62>, EP 2.6.13
Staph. aureusAbsent in 1gUSP <62>
OtherSulfated Ash≤ 0.1%USP <281>
AppearanceWhite crystalline powderVisual
Solubility (10% soln.)Clear, colorless solutionVisual
pH (10% soln.)5.0 – 7.0USP <791>

9. Packaging & Logistics

  • Primary: Food-grade polyethylene liners.

  • Secondary: Robust 25kg fiber drums or kraft paper bags. Custom packaging available (e.g., vacuum-sealed foil bags for hygroscopic grades).

  • Logistics: Shipped globally via air/sea freight under controlled conditions (cool, dry). Compliant with IMDG/IATA regulations. MOQ typically 25kg; samples available.

10. Research Frontiers & Challenges

  • Frontiers: Exploring trehalose’s role in autophagy induction for neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing bioavailability of poorly soluble drugs (cocrystallization), next-gen mRNA vaccine stabilization, and novel biomaterial preservation.

  • Challenges: Cost-effective large-scale enzymatic production optimization, demonstrating clinical efficacy for novel therapeutic claims, regulatory pathways for new high-value applications.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: Is trehalose natural? A: Yes, it occurs naturally. Commercial trehalose is typically produced enzymatically from starch.

  • Q: Is trehalose safe? A: Yes, it has GRAS status (FDA) and is approved globally (EFSA, JECFA) for food use. It’s well-tolerated.

  • Q: Does trehalose spike blood sugar? A: It has a lower Glycemic Index (~70) than glucose (100) and sucrose (65), causing a slower, more sustained rise.

  • Q: Why use trehalose instead of sucrose? A: Superior stability, lower reactivity (non-reducing), better cryo/lyoprotection, lower cariogenicity, and mild sweetness.

  • Q: Can trehalose be used in vegan products? A: Absolutely, as it’s derived from plant starch and produced enzymatically.

  • Q: How does trehalose stabilize proteins? A: Primarily through the “Water Replacement Hypothesis,” forming hydrogen bonds with biomolecules, and vitrification during drying.

  • Q: What is the shelf life? A: Typically 3 years when stored sealed in a cool, dry place (<25°C, <65% RH).

12. Where to Buy & Request Samples
Source premium, high-purity Trehalose directly from the manufacturer:

  • Website: Explore our full product portfolio at aiherba.com

  • Contact for Quotes & FREE Samples: Reach our technical sales team at liaodaohai@gmail.com for competitive pricing, technical data sheets (TDS), and sample requests tailored to your application (Food, Pharma, Cosmetic, Research).

13. Conclusion
Trehalose stands as a versatile and scientifically validated biomolecule, offering unparalleled stabilization benefits across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and research industries. Its natural origin, safety profile, and unique physicochemical properties make it an indispensable tool. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd., leveraging 28 years of expertise, cutting-edge purification technology (validated by Superconducting NMR and UPLC-QTOF-MS), and stringent quality control exceeding pharmacopeial standards, delivers trehalose of exceptional purity (>99.5%) and consistency. Partner with Zhonghong for reliable, high-performance trehalose solutions backed by deep technical support and a global supply chain. Contact us today via liaodaohai@gmail.com or visit aiherba.com for samples and specifications.

14. References

  1. International Trehalose Association. (n.d.). Scientific Resources. [Link]

  2. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2011). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to trehalose… EFSA Journal, 9(4), 2073.

  3. Ohtake, S., & Wang, Y. J. (2011). Trehalose: current use and future applications. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 100(6), 2020-2053.

  4. Chen, A., & Tait, A. R. (2019). Trehalose as a promising therapeutic candidate for neurodegenerative disorders. Translational Neurodegeneration, 8(1), 1-10.

  5. USP-NF. (2024). Monograph: Trehalose. United States Pharmacopeial Convention.

  6. European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) 11th Edition. (2024). Monograph 01/2024:0000.

  7. Zhonghong Tech. (2024). Internal Quality Control Protocols & Analytical Reports. Shaanxi, China.

评价

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Trehalose”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Products

滚动至顶部

Get a Quote & Sample

请在浏览器中启用JavaScript来完成此表单。

Get a Quote & Sample