Product Specification

Food Grade Chitosan with 90% deacetylation and High Density for Supplements 

What is High-Density Food Grade Chitosan?

Chitosan, also known as deacetylated chitin, polyglucosamine, and soluble chitin, is a biomacromolecule with a molecular weight of 120,000 to 590,000 that is converted from chitin by deacetylation.

Chitosan can inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, so it is often added to pickled foods or used to preserve seafood (shrimp) and fruits (lychee, kiwi). Due to the presence of polar groups, chitosan has a high affinity and water retention for water, which plays an important role in moisturizing semi-dry and semi-humid foods.

High-density chitosan refers to chitosan powder with high bulk density, good fluidity and strong compressibility, and is very suitable for the production of health care tablets.

Characteristics of High-Density Food Grade Chitosan

High-density chitosan possesses several key characteristics that make it valuable in food applications:

• High Density: The processing of high-density chitosan results in a denser form of the material, which can be advantageous in certain applications, such as more efficient formulation in food products.

• Water Solubility: While chitosan is not highly soluble in water, it becomes soluble in acidic conditions, allowing it to be used in various food systems.

• Biodegradable and Biocompatible: Chitosan is a natural, biodegradable polymer, making it safe for human consumption and environmentally friendly.

• Film-Forming Ability: Chitosan can form a thin, flexible film, which is useful for coating foods and providing a barrier against moisture and oxygen.

• Antimicrobial Properties: Chitosan has inherent antimicrobial activity, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi in food products.

• Fat Binding: Chitosan is known for its ability to bind with fats and lipids, making it useful in reducing fat content in foods.

Specification of Chitosan

Nutritional Benefits of High-Density Food Grade Chitosan

Chitosan offers several nutritional benefits, particularly related to weight management and digestive health:

• Weight Management: Chitosan is often used in weight loss supplements because it can bind to dietary fats in the digestive system, preventing their absorption and reducing overall calorie intake.

• Cholesterol Reduction: By binding to fats, chitosan can help lower blood cholesterol levels, contributing to improved cardiovascular health.

• Digestive Health: Chitosan acts as a dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

• Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies suggest that chitosan may help in regulating blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates.

Functions of High-Density Food Grade Chitosan in Food Products

High-density chitosan serves multiple functions in food products:

• Fat Binder: Chitosan’s ability to bind with fats makes it a valuable ingredient in low-fat or reduced-calorie foods, helping to reduce fat content while maintaining texture and mouthfeel.

• Thickening Agent: Chitosan can be used as a thickener in sauces, dressings, and other food products, providing a desirable consistency without adding extra calories.

• Emulsifier: Chitosan helps stabilize emulsions, which is beneficial in products like salad dressings and sauces where oil and water components need to remain mixed.

• Preservative: Due to its antimicrobial properties, chitosan can extend the shelf life of food products by inhibiting the growth of spoilage microorganisms.

• Film-Former: Chitosan can be used to create edible films or coatings on food products, protecting them from moisture loss and oxidation.

Applications of High-Density Food Grade Chitosan

High-density food grade chitosan is versatile and can be used in a wide range of food applications:

• Dietary Supplements: Often included in weight loss and cholesterol-lowering supplements due to its fat-binding properties.

• Meat and Seafood Processing: Used as a preservative and fat reducer in processed meats and seafood products, helping to maintain quality and extend shelf life.

• Dairy Products: Incorporated into low-fat dairy products to improve texture and stability, without adding significant calories.

• Bakery Products: Used in baked goods as a fat replacer and to enhance moisture retention, improving the overall quality of the product.

• Edible Films and Coatings: Applied to fruits, vegetables, and other perishable foods to extend shelf life by forming a protective barrier against spoilage agents.

• Functional Foods: Included in foods designed for weight management, cholesterol reduction, or digestive health, where its nutritional benefits are particularly valuable.

In conclusion, high-density food grade chitosan is a multifunctional ingredient that offers significant advantages in the food industry. Its ability to bind fats, act as a thickener, and provide antimicrobial protection makes it a valuable addition to various food products, from low-fat dairy items to processed meats and functional foods. Additionally, its nutritional benefits in weight management and digestive health further enhance its appeal as a food ingredient.