For manufacturers in the food and beverage industry, ensuring the quality and safety of ingredients is paramount. Creatine Monohydrate, a popular nutritional supplement ingredient, is increasingly being used to enhance the health profile of various food products. When you look to buy Creatine Monohydrate for these applications, understanding and adhering to food-grade standards is non-negotiable. This guide outlines what makes Creatine Monohydrate suitable for food applications and how to select a reliable supplier.

What Defines Food-Grade Creatine Monohydrate?

Food-grade Creatine Monohydrate must meet stringent purity and safety requirements that differentiate it from industrial or pharmaceutical grades. Key characteristics include:

  • High Purity: The assay for food-grade Creatine Monohydrate should be 99.5% or higher. This means minimal levels of impurities such as creatinine, heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium), and other contaminants.
  • Low Microbial Load: It must have very low counts of total bacteria, yeast, and mold, and be free from harmful pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella.
  • Certifications: Reputable manufacturers will possess certifications relevant to food safety, such as ISO, HACCP, Kosher, and Halal. FDA approval or compliance is also a significant indicator.
  • Traceability: The product should have clear traceability from raw material to finished product.

Key Specifications to Verify When Purchasing

When you purchase Creatine Monohydrate, always scrutinize the product specifications and accompanying documentation. Focus on:

  • CAS Number: Confirm the CAS number is 6020-87-7, the correct identifier for Creatine Monohydrate.
  • Appearance: Food-grade is typically a white crystalline powder.
  • Loss on Drying: This should be within a specified low range, indicating minimal moisture content.
  • Residue on Ignition: A low percentage here signifies minimal inorganic impurities.
  • Heavy Metals: Strict limits are enforced for heavy metals to ensure consumer safety.

Finding a Reliable Food-Grade Supplier in China

China is a significant producer of Creatine Monohydrate. To ensure you buy a product that meets food-grade standards, partner with manufacturers who specialize in food ingredients and have a strong reputation for quality and compliance. Look for suppliers who:

  • Explicitly state their product is food-grade and provide supporting documentation.
  • Have modern manufacturing facilities and robust quality control systems.
  • Offer samples for your own testing and verification.
  • Are transparent about their sourcing and production processes.

By prioritizing these aspects, you can secure a consistent supply of high-quality, food-grade Creatine Monohydrate that will meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements for your products.