KOJIC ACID- ▸ Food additive: Inhibits enzymatic browning in food processing.
- ▸ Flavor intermediate: Converted to maltol and ethyl maltol flavor enhancers.
- ▸ Chelating agent: Forms metal chelates.
- ▸ Cosmetic ingredient: Skin-brightening agent in cosmetic formulations.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Kojic Acid (CAS 501-30-4) is a fungal-derived gamma-pyranone (C6H6O4) and tyrosinase inhibitor. It is used as a food additive to inhibit enzymatic browning, as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of the flavor compounds maltol and ethyl maltol, and as a metal-chelating agent. In cosmetics it is formulated as a skin-brightening ingredient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is kojic acid used for?
Kojic Acid (CAS 501-30-4) is a fungal-derived gamma-pyranone (C6H6O4) used as a food additive to inhibit enzymatic browning, as a chemical intermediate in manufacturing the flavor compounds maltol and ethyl maltol, and as a metal-chelating agent. In cosmetics it is formulated as a skin-brightening ingredient. RawSource supplies it as a bulk raw material to formulators and processors.
What is the difference between kojic acid and vitamin C?
They are distinct compounds with different chemistry: kojic acid is a gamma-pyranone (C6H6O4, CAS 501-30-4) that acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor and metal chelator, while vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a separate antioxidant amino-sugar-derived acid. As raw materials they are sourced and specified independently; we can quote either against your formulation spec.
What is kojic acid made from?
Kojic acid is produced by fermentation, generated by Aspergillus and related fungi metabolizing carbohydrates such as glucose. The isolated, purified compound is supplied as a crystalline raw material with identity confirmed on the CoA.
How is kojic acid sold in bulk?
It is supplied as a powder/crystalline raw material in industrial packaging suited to food, flavor-intermediate, and cosmetic manufacturing. Contact us for bulk pack sizes, minimum order quantity, available grade, lead time, and a current quote. SDS and CoA are provided with every shipment.
What is the CAS number and HS code for kojic acid?
Kojic acid is CAS 501-30-4 with molecular formula C6H6O4. As an oxygen-heterocyclic compound it is classified under HS subheading 2932.99. Full identity and specification data accompany each order on the CoA.