Magnesium Citrate

Synonyms: Magnesium citrate tribasic, Trimagnesium citrate, Magnesium salt of citric acid, Citric acid magnesium salt, E345

Magnesium citrate has become a staple in the dietary supplement aisle, driven by growing consumer awareness of magnesium deficiency and its role in everything from muscle recovery to sleep quality. Formulators favor it for its high bioavailability and gentle gastrointestinal profile, making it a go-to choice for capsules, powders, and effervescent tablets.

Chemically, it is the magnesium salt of citric acid, typically existing as a hydrated form such as the nonahydrate. It is produced by reacting magnesium oxide or hydroxide with citric acid in aqueous solution, followed by crystallization and drying. The result is a white, water-soluble powder with a mild taste, ideal for drink mixes and functional beverages.

Commercial grades are standardized to ≥98% magnesium citrate, with tight control on heavy metals and microbial limits. Its excellent solubility and neutral pH in solution make it compatible with a wide range of actives, from vitamin D to probiotics, without compromising stability.

Product Overview & Composition

Magnesium citrate consists of magnesium cations chelated with citrate anions. The citrate moiety itself contributes to the mineral’s bioavailability by enhancing absorption through the intestinal epithelium. The compound is available in anhydrous, dihydrate, and nonahydrate forms, with the nonahydrate being the most common for supplement applications due to its stability and ease of handling.

In terms of elemental magnesium content, the nonahydrate provides approximately 11.3% magnesium, while the anhydrous form offers around 16.2%. This variation allows formulators to adjust dosages precisely based on the desired elemental magnesium delivery. The citrate anion also acts as a mild buffer, which can help reduce gastric irritation often associated with other magnesium salts like oxide or sulfate.

Key Applications

• Dietary supplements: Used in capsules, tablets, and powders for magnesium supplementation, supporting muscle function, nerve health, and energy metabolism.
• Functional beverages: Its high solubility and neutral taste make it a preferred choice for sports drinks, electrolyte waters, and relaxation beverages.
• Effervescent tablets: Reacts with bicarbonate to create effervescence, delivering magnesium in a fast-dissolving, pleasant-tasting format.
• Pharmaceutical preparations: Included in laxative formulations and as a magnesium source in parenteral nutrition, though the latter requires specific grades.
• Food fortification: Added to dairy alternatives, cereals, and meal replacements to boost magnesium content without affecting texture or flavor.

Quality & Standards

Packaging & Supply

• Packaging: 25 kg net paper bags with PE inner liners, palletized and stretch-wrapped for export.
• MOQ: 500 kg.
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS, and nutritional analysis available upon request.

Request For Quote

• LyvBio Co., Ltd. — Email: info@lyvbio.com