Ferrous Gluconate

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Ferrous Gluconate is an iron salt of gluconic acid, appearing as a pale greenish-blue or green crystalline powder or granules. It is widely used as a nutritional iron supplement and food additive due to its good bioavailability and relatively low toxicity compared to other iron salts. Ferrous Gluconate is water-soluble, providing a stable source of ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) that is easily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. This compound is commonly employed in pharmaceuticals, food fortification, and medical formulations to treat or prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is also used as a reducing agent and color stabilizer in various industrial applications.

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Category: Nutrient Supplements Tags: Dietary Supplement, Ferrous Gluconate, Food additive, Iron Supplement, Nutritional supplement, Pharmaceutical ingredient

Description

Table of Contents

Ferrous Gluconate

Primary Uses

Pharmaceuticals and Nutritional Supplements
- Used as an iron supplement to treat and prevent iron deficiency anemia.
- Formulated into tablets, capsules, syrups, and fortified foods due to good gastrointestinal tolerance.
- Preferred in pediatric formulations for improved palatability and reduced gastrointestinal irritation.
Food Industry
- Employed as a fortifying agent to enrich foods with bioavailable iron.
- Commonly added to cereals, flour, bakery products, and beverages.
- Acts as a color stabilizer and reducing agent to maintain product appearance.
Medical and Health Applications
- Used in intravenous iron therapy and oral iron formulations.
- Sometimes applied in wound care formulations for its mild antimicrobial properties and to promote healing.
Industrial Uses
- Utilized as a reducing agent in photographic developers and certain chemical syntheses.
- Employed in dyeing and printing industries to enhance color fixation.

Secondary Uses

Cosmetics
- Occasionally used as a colorant or active ingredient in cosmetic formulations to improve skin appearance.
Veterinary Medicine
- Used as an iron supplement in animal feed and veterinary medicinal products.
Water Treatment
- Acts as a mild reducing agent in water treatment to remove dissolved oxygen or heavy metals.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Ferrous gluconate
Common/Trade Name: Ferrous Gluconate
CAS Number: 299-28-5
HS Code: 2833.29.00
Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₂FeO₁₄
Synonyms: Iron(II) gluconate, Iron D-gluconate, Ferrous D-gluconate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Pale greenish-blue crystalline powder or granules
Odor: Odorless or slight acidic smell
Solubility: Soluble in water (approximately 1 g/2 mL at 20°C), insoluble in alcohol
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting (~200°C)
pH (aqueous solution): Slightly acidic (pH ~3–5)
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to oxidation forming ferric compounds on exposure to air and moisture

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under normal use; may cause mild irritation on contact
Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; excessive intake can cause iron toxicity
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits established

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from oxidizing agents and moisture
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers, moisture-proof packaging
Shelf Life: 2–3 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation and inhalation; minimize exposure to air to prevent oxidation

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Approved for use as a food additive and nutritional supplement
REACH Registration: Registered under EU chemical regulations
Food Additive Code: E579 (iron gluconate) in Europe
Usage Restrictions: Maximum allowed concentrations regulated in food and pharmaceuticals

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Organic iron salt; biodegradable in the environment
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms at normal usage levels
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Gloves (nitrile or latex recommended)
- Safety goggles
- Lab coat or protective clothing
- Dust mask if handling large quantities or in dusty environments
Handling Guidelines:
- Use in well-ventilated areas or under local exhaust ventilation
- Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with eyes and skin
- Prevent dust accumulation and spills
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly sealed
- Store away from oxidizing agents and moisture
- Protect from direct sunlight and heat sources
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product
- Clean surfaces and equipment after use

First Aid Measures

Inhalation:
- Move the affected person to fresh air
- Seek medical attention if respiratory irritation or distress occurs
Skin Contact:
- Wash affected area with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Consult a physician if irritation develops or persists
Eye Contact:
- Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes
- Seek medical attention if irritation persists
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water
- Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel
- Seek immediate medical advice in case of large ingestion

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards:
- Non-flammable; however, may decompose under fire conditions producing toxic fumes
Extinguishing Media:
- Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide (CO₂) as appropriate
Special Precautions:
- Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if exposed to fumes
Decomposition Products:
- May emit carbon oxides, iron oxides, and other toxic gases under fire conditions