Sodium lactate
[CAS# 72-17-3]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Hydrocarbon compounds and their derivatives >> Hydrocarbon halide
• Name: Sodium lactate
• Synonyms: Sodium DL-lactate; Lactic acid sodium salt; (+/-)-2-Hydroxypropionic acid sodium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₅NaO₃
• Molecular Weight: 112.06
• CAS Registry Number: 72-17-3
• EC Number: 200-772-0
• SMILES: CC(C(=O)[O-])O.[Na+]

Properties

• Density: 1.326
• Melting point: 17.2 °C
• Boiling point: 150 °C
• Refractive index: 1.422-1.425
• Water solubility: miscible

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H315-H318-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P280-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P317-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H413

Discovery and Applications

Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid with the chemical formula C3H5NaO3. It is obtained by neutralizing lactic acid, a natural organic acid found primarily in yogurt products, fruits, and vegetables. The compound is characterized by high water solubility, which increases its usability in aqueous formulations and industrial processes.

The earliest and most important application of sodium lactate is food preservation. Due to its antimicrobial properties, sodium lactate inhibits the growth of bacteria, thereby extending the shelf life of perishable foods such as meat, poultry, and seafood. It is often used as a preservative in processed meats and marinating solutions, helping to maintain freshness and safety.

In addition to being a preservative, sodium lactate can be used as a flavor enhancer and humectant in foods. It contributes to the characteristic taste of certain foods and helps retain moisture, improving texture and palatability.

In medicine, sodium lactate is used as a source of electrolytes in intravenous fluids, especially in situations where it is necessary to correct electrolyte imbalances or provide rehydration. It is valued for its ability to replenish sodium ions and maintain acid-base balance in patients in intensive care or rehydration therapy. Topically, sodium lactate is used in skin care products for its moisturizing and exfoliating properties. Improved skin hydration and texture make sodium lactate a common ingredient in lotions, creams, and exfoliating treatments.

In addition to its uses in food and healthcare, sodium lactate has a variety of industrial uses. Due to its ability to chelate metal ions and its mild antimicrobial properties, sodium lactate is used in industrial cleaning solutions to help inhibit microbial growth and remove mineral deposits from equipment and surfaces, thereby improving hygiene levels and operating efficiency. In the textile and leather industries, sodium lactate acts as a pH regulator and buffer during dyeing and finishing processes. It ensures consistent color absorption and improves the overall quality of dyed fabrics and leather products.

Sodium lactate is recognized for its biodegradability and low environmental impact. It is safe for use in food and pharmaceutical applications when used according to regulatory guidelines. Proper handling methods are essential to minimize the potential risks of high concentrations of sodium lactate.

Looking ahead, ongoing research aims to explore new applications and improve existing uses of sodium lactate. Advances in biotechnology and materials science will uncover more potential, especially in areas such as sustainable packaging, biodegradable plastics, and renewable energy technologies.

References

2003. Thermal Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Ground Beef Supplemented with Sodium Lactate. Journal of Food Protection, 66(4).
DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x-66.4.664