Tocopheryl acetate

Synonyms: Vitamin E Acetate, DL-alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, all-rac-alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Vitamin E Acetate 50%, Tocopherol Acetate

Tocopheryl acetate is the acetylated derivative of alpha-tocopherol, the most biologically active member of the vitamin E family. The molecule consists of a chromanol ring with a fully substituted 6-hydroxyl group and a saturated phytyl side chain. By converting the phenolic hydroxyl into an acetate ester, the compound gains remarkable resistance to oxidation, making it the preferred form of vitamin E for formulations where stability over shelf life is critical. Upon ingestion or topical application, endogenous esterases cleave the acetate group to release free alpha-tocopherol, which is then available for antioxidant and cell-signaling functions.

Commercial tocopheryl acetate is produced via condensation of trimethylhydroquinone with isophytol, followed by acetylation. The resulting all-rac (synthetic) form contains eight stereoisomers in equal proportions and is standardized to a minimum of 97% purity by GC. It is a clear, pale yellow, odorless oil that blends readily with oils, fats, and organic solvents but is practically insoluble in water. For water-dispersible applications, it is also supplied as a 50% powder or as a water-soluble form using polysorbate or other emulsifiers.

As a globally recognized nutrient and antioxidant, tocopheryl acetate is used extensively in dietary supplements, functional foods, clinical nutrition, and personal care products. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a stabilizing antioxidant in oil-based injections and as an active in dermatological preparations for dry or damaged skin. Its excellent safety profile, documented in numerous regulatory monographs (USP, EP, JP), and its compatibility with a wide range of excipients make it a versatile choice for formulators worldwide.

Chemical Structure & Properties

The molecule (C31H52O3, MW 472.74) features a 2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)chroman-6-yl acetate skeleton. The acetate group shields the phenolic oxygen, preventing radical-mediated degradation during storage and processing. It is a viscous oil with a specific gravity of approximately 0.96 and a refractive index of 1.494–1.499 at 20°C. It is freely soluble in ethanol, acetone, chloroform, and vegetable oils, but practically insoluble in water. The ester is stable under acidic conditions but hydrolyzes under strong alkali or in the presence of esterases.

Mechanism of Action

• Antioxidant protection: Alpha-tocopherol scavenges peroxyl radicals, breaking lipid peroxidation chain reactions in cell membranes and lipoproteins.
• Membrane stabilization: By intercalating into phospholipid bilayers, it maintains membrane integrity and reduces oxidative damage to polyunsaturated fatty acids.
• Enzymatic release: Esterases in the skin and gastrointestinal tract hydrolyze the acetate ester, liberating free tocopherol for local antioxidant action.
• Formulation stability: The acetate ester itself acts as a secondary antioxidant in oil-based systems, protecting other sensitive ingredients from oxidation.

Quality Specifications

Supply & Documentation

• Capacity: 500 metric tons per year
• Lead time: 3-5 business days (stock items)
• Documentation: COA, MSDS, TDS, and regulatory support available upon request
• Packaging: 25 kg or 190 kg net in food-grade polyethylene drums; custom packaging options available

Request For Quote

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