Chromium Picolinate

Synonyms: Chromium(III) picolinate, Tris(picolinato)chromium, Chromium pyridine-2-carboxylate, Chromium tris(picolinate), CrPic

Chromium picolinate is a coordination complex in which a central chromium(III) ion is bound to three picolinic acid molecules. This chelated form was first synthesized in the 1960s, but its rise to prominence came in the 1980s when researchers identified it as a more bioavailable alternative to inorganic chromium salts. Today it is one of the most widely used chromium sources in dietary supplements, clinical nutrition, and functional food formulations.

The compound’s value lies in its ability to support insulin signaling. Chromium is an essential trace element that potentiates the action of insulin, and picolinic acid—a natural metabolite of tryptophan—acts as a chelating agent that improves absorption across the intestinal wall. Compared with chromium chloride or chromium polynicotinate, chromium picolinate offers superior stability and a higher degree of bioavailability, which explains its dominance in the sports nutrition and glucose management categories.

Commercial chromium picolinate is typically produced through a reaction between chromium(III) salts and picolinic acid under controlled pH and temperature. The resulting complex is isolated, purified, and milled to a fine powder that meets pharmacopeial standards. It is standardized to a chromium content of 12.0–12.5%, corresponding to a purity of ≥98.0% by HPLC.

Function

• Insulin potentiation: Enhances insulin sensitivity and supports glucose uptake in cells.
• Carbohydrate metabolism: Plays a role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
• Body composition support: May assist in maintaining lean muscle mass when combined with resistance training.
• Antioxidant defense: Chromium(III) complexes exhibit mild antioxidant activity in vitro.
• Cholesterol balance: Supports healthy lipid profiles, particularly HDL and triglyceride levels.

Source & Standardization

• Source: Synthetic complex of chromium(III) and picolinic acid
• Extraction: Chemical synthesis followed by crystallization and milling
• Standardization: ≥98.0% (HPLC), chromium content 12.0–12.5%
• Forms: Deep red to reddish-brown crystalline powder
• Applications: Dietary supplements, sports nutrition, clinical nutrition, functional beverages

Specifications

Documentation & Supply

• Monthly capacity: 5 metric tons
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS, nutritional analysis available upon request
• Packaging: 25 kg fiber drum with double polyethylene liner; custom packaging options available

Request For Quote

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