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The Curious Bag
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Magnesium stearate (octadecanoic acid) is the magnesium salt of stearic acid. Vegetable magnesium stearate comes from vegetable fats and oils and is commonly used as a binding agent and lubricant in a variety of products.
Properties
Vegetable magnesium stearate (VMS) is a compound derived from two ions of stearic acid and a magnesium ion, giving it the molecular formula C36H70MgO4. ScienceLab.com's material safety data sheet notes that the melting point of VMS is 88 degrees C. (190.4 degrees F.), and may be combustible at high temperatures. It has little water solubility.
Appearance
According to Mallinckrodt Chemicals' data sheet, magnesium stearate is manufactured as a fine white to yellow-white powder and has a "slight odor of fatty acid."
Sources
The stearic acid in VMS is procured mainly through unsaturated plant-based vegetable oils such as shea and cocoa butter and palm oil. VMS has become a popular alternative to magnesium stearate derived from animal sources such as pork and beef.
Industrial Uses
Magnesium stearate is used as a binder and lubricant in tablet formulations. Other uses include dusting powder, paint and varnish drier, emulsifier and preservative.
Safety
VMS is safe for consumption. Expert Byron J. Richards stated the following in a 2009 article on WellnessResources.com:, "There is no human evidence or study that shows magnesium stearate is in any way harmful. Its safety is well-recognized throughout the industry."
Source:
ScienceLab.com: Magnesium Stearate Data Sheet
Mallinckrodt Chemicals: Magnesium Stearate Data Sheet
WellnessResources.com: The Facts on Magnesium Stearate
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