| Names | |
|---|---|
| Preferred IUPAC name | Iron(3+) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate hydrate |
| Other names | Ferric citrate hydrate Iron(III) citrate hydrate Ferric ammonium citrate Iron(3+) citrate hydrate |
| Pronunciation | /ˈaɪərn ˈsɪtrət haɪˈdreɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 2338-05-8 |
| Beilstein Reference | 26017 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:78031 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL2107738 |
| ChemSpider | 3474744 |
| DrugBank | DB15000 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03c0173e-a3e8-4cbb-b732-c24d1b0c41d9 |
| EC Number | 237-003-9 |
| Gmelin Reference | Gmelin Reference: 131221 |
| KEGG | C13581 |
| MeSH | D017376 |
| PubChem CID | 16213232 |
| RTECS number | NJ40MG1G6A |
| UNII | BMU5F2LO3M |
| UN number | UN3077 |
| CompTox Dashboard (EPA) | 39997 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C6H5FeO7·xH2O |
| Molar mass | 252.97 g/mol |
| Appearance | white to off-white powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.96 g/cm3 |
| Solubility in water | soluble |
| log P | -4.8 |
| Acidity (pKa) | 3.13 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 7.2 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | Paramagnetic |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.600 |
| Viscosity | Viscous liquid |
| Dipole moment | 6.04 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 237.38 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -1853.18 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | B03AB05 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Harmful if swallowed. Causes serious eye irritation. Causes skin irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS labelling for Iron Citrate Hydrate as string: "GHS07; Exclamation mark; Warning; H317; May cause an allergic skin reaction. |
| Pictograms | GHS07,GHS09 |
| Signal word | Warning |
| Hazard statements | Hazard statements: Harmful if swallowed. Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | Keep container tightly closed. Store in a cool, dry place. Handle under inert atmosphere. Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with skin and eyes. Use personal protective equipment as required. |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-0-0 |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD50 Oral Rat 4,050 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): Oral rat LD50: > 5,000 mg/kg |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL: 1 mg/m³ |
| REL (Recommended) | 0.7-2.1 mg/kg |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not listed |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds | Iron(II) sulfate Iron(III) chloride Ferric ammonium citrate Iron gluconate Iron(III) nitrate Iron(II) fumarate Sodium citrate Citric acid |
| Property | Details & Manufacturer Commentary |
|---|---|
| Product Name & IUPAC Name |
Product Name: Iron Citrate Hydrate IUPAC Name: Iron(III) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate, hydrate In manufacturing, the preferred designation aligns with the dominant stoichiometry and iron valence state targeted by the production route. Formal nomenclature is used for regulatory and supply chain traceability. |
| Chemical Formula |
Formula varies by number of hydrate waters and iron content. General Anhydrous Formula: FeC6H5O7 Typical Hydrate Produced: FeC6H5O7·xH2O Hydration state changes with drying, process conditions, and storage humidity. Final hydrate level is often customized or standardized on customer order for formulations sensitive to water content. |
| Synonyms & Trade Names |
Common Synonyms: Ferric Citrate, Iron(III) Citrate, Iron Citrate Hydrate Synonym set depends on jurisdiction and end-use sector. In fertilizer and food applications, trade names may reflect blend ratios or functional claims specified by major customers. |
| HS Code & Customs Classification |
Harmonized System (HS) Code: 2918.15 Customs Description: Salts and esters of citric acid – Iron salts Classification accounts for principal cation and nature of organic anion. Grade influences customs paperwork; products shipped under this code require certificate of analysis and origin declaration to satisfy regulatory import controls in most regions. |
In manufacturing, iron citrate hydrate typically appears as a fine powder or crystalline solid depending on hydration and drying steps taken after synthesis. Color ranges from pale yellow to light brown, varying with trace impurities and degree of hydration. The powder is virtually odorless. Melting and boiling points are not determined in the conventional sense, since the compound decomposes rather than undergoes a clean phase transition under heating. Density values shift depending on water content and bulk processing density, which must be controlled during packaging for consistency in formulation and blending operations.
Stability in storage is influenced by exposure to moisture, air, and light. Hydrated iron citrate displays more pronounced sensitivity to humidity; long-term contact with atmospheric moisture leads to gradual changes in hydration state, which will affect flow and dissolution rate. Reactivity towards acidic or basic environments leads to partial dissolution or precipitation of iron salts. Chelation ability fluctuates with solution conditions—pH and ionic strength directly impact complex formation and downstream reactivity, so maintaining consistency in upstream water quality and pH during use remains essential.
Solubility in water depends on grade, hydration level, and purity. Most food and reagent grade products dissolve reasonably well under gentle stirring; technical grades may leave insoluble particulates related to iron oxides or unreacted feedstock. Temperature strongly affects dissolving time and completeness. To achieve reproducible solutions, pre-filtration and adjustment to target pH may be required, particularly for analytical or formulation applications. For bulk dosing, automated agitation and in-line filtration avoid clumping and dust generation.
| Parameter | Technical Grade | Food/Reagent Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Pale yellow to brown powder | Pale yellow, crystalline powder |
| Assay (Fe content) | Grade-dependent | Customer-specified |
| Loss on Drying | Depends on hydration | Customer-specified |
| Insoluble Residue | Process-dependent | Lower for high grade |
| Heavy Metals | Not routinely tested | Limit per regulatory guideline |
Source of impurities falls into two categories: raw material and process-derived. Metallic impurities relate to feedstock quality; organic residues result from incomplete reaction or poor purification. Limits are established according to grade and end use. Food and pharma grades demand tighter specifications and more frequent monitoring. Internal limits are subject to regulatory requirement and customer specification, documented in batch records.
Testing relies on wet chemistry (complexometric, redox titration), spectrophotometric iron quantification, and gravimetric hydration analysis. Instrument calibration and validated SOPs underpin batch release. Methods align with recognized pharmacopeial or food additive standards when relevant, otherwise company SOPs reflect customer risk assessments and regulatory requirements.
Iron citrate hydrate production uses iron(III) salts (commonly ferric chloride or ferric sulfate) and citric acid. Selection is based on impurity burden, solubility, and supply chain reliability; food, reagent, and pharmaceutical grade require high purity inputs and full traceability. Technical grade tolerates broader variance in feed quality where end use permits.
The reaction involves dissolving iron(III) salt and citric acid in controlled aqueous medium. Mixing and pH adjustment drive chelation and precipitation. Careful monitoring avoids formation of insoluble iron oxides and controls citrate excess. All process water must meet internal purification criteria to avoid background contamination.
Key controls include pH, temperature, mixing intensity, and filtration sequence. Crystallization dynamics affect product form and hydration. In-process checks monitor iron content, residual acidity, and particulate load. Multiple washes and filtrations reduce soluble and insoluble by-products. For high-purity grades, further purification by recrystallization or ultrafiltration is implemented.
Each batch undergoes final verification for assay, hydration, appearance, and impurity profile. Comparative checks against retain samples assure batch-to-batch consistency. Release protocols reflect internal QC standards and customer requirements. Deviation management involves root cause analysis, with rapid response to non-conformance to limit customer impact.
Iron citrate hydrate participates in typical chelation and redox reactions. The iron(III) center can undergo reduction or ligand exchange. Treatment with alkaline agents precipitates iron hydroxides. Acidic conditions displace citrate ions, releasing free iron ions capable of participating in secondary reactions.
Reaction dynamics depend on solution pH, temperature, iron-to-citrate ratio, and presence of complexing agents. Downstream applications sometimes use iron citrate as an iron source in fertilizers or animal nutrition; modification of reaction conditions tailors solubility and available iron fraction. For derivative synthesis, catalysts or specific solvents modify citrate ligands, giving access to amino acid iron chelates or other organometallic complexes.
Iron citrate chemistry serves as a platform for synthesis of iron(III) complexes, mixed citrate salts, and organo-iron functional materials. Food and supplement applications might transform iron citrate to more bioavailable iron chelates through post-synthesis ligand exchange, requiring precise pH and purity control.
Sensitive to humidity, product must remain tightly sealed in moisture-resistant containers. Extended storage in humid climate risks caking and partial hydrolysis. Oxygen and light exposure should be minimized to limit color change and potential iron oxidation, particularly in high-purity or food/pharma grades. Storage temperature is governed by hydration state and container compatibility, with cool, dry conditions giving longest shelf life.
Polyethylene, polypropylene, and lined fiber drums prove effective for large volumes, provided seals prevent moisture uptake. For lower volume or high-value product, glass or inert-lined HDPE containers are preferred to avoid trace metal contamination or static charge buildup.
Product integrity degrades with prolonged exposure to air and moisture. Caking, color shift, and reduced solubility indicate physical and chemical deterioration. Shelf life is determined by grade, packing quality, and storage practice, with periodic QC checks verifying continued suitability for intended use.
Hazard classification for iron citrate hydrate correlates with iron bioavailability and acute toxicity data. Most grades are not classified as highly hazardous, but ingestion in large quantities or repeated inhalation during production or handling may present health risk, especially in young children or those with iron overload risk factors.
Typical precautions involve dust minimization, careful handling to avoid eye and respiratory exposure, and equipment decontamination after spills. Standard PPE includes gloves, goggles, and dust masks in production and packaging areas.
Acute toxicity is low for incidental exposure, though chronic ingestion or improper handling poses cumulative risk. No formal workplace exposure limits are universally assigned, but controls follow internal risk assessment results. Dust extraction, engineering controls, and user training reduce residual risk.
Modern iron citrate hydrate production lines follow batch synthesis using controlled aqueous reactions of ferric salts and citric acid under defined pH conditions. Total output aligns closely with available upstream ferric raw materials, purity requirement, and the ability to manage iron speciation in solution. The most significant limiting factors remain feedstock purity, reactor capacity, and precise process control to avoid precipitation and maintain product grade. Manufacturing sites with direct supply control over iron salts and integrated solution handling maintain stronger throughput and smaller batch cycle times. Typical availability scales linearly with raw materials, subject to short-term adjustments due to plant maintenance, feedstock disruptions, or purity upgrades.
Lead time depends on batch scheduling, required certification level, and packaging customization. Standard commercial grades are usually available on cycles that run from stock or just-in-time production, with lead times ranging from one to several weeks for full-container or bulk truckload orders. Special purity requirements and packaging formats extend lead times based on raw material acquisition and dedicated production runs. MOQ reflects batch scale; high-purity and pharmaceutical requirements typically incur higher MOQ thresholds to balance process and QC costs.
Iron citrate hydrate leaves the plant in double-lined polyethylene bags, steel drums, or bulk containers, depending on handling constraints for moisture and trace contamination. Bulk industrial demand favors flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) when downstream process can handle exposure risk, while research and high-purity lots are reserved for smaller, sealed units with vapor barriers. Packaging selection must protect against humidity ingress and ensure trace element stability during transit.
Standard shipping uses LCL or FCL sea freight for bulk transportation, with air freight reserved for urgent or small-batch orders. Terms commonly operate under EXW or FOB, with CNF/DDP available for committed partnerships. Payment structures adjust based on volume, customer history, and credit assessment, moving from upfront remittance to staggered LC or net payment cycles for established buyers.
The base price of iron citrate hydrate reflects direct input costs from ferric sulfate or ferric chloride and food- or pharma-grade citric acid. Grade selection in both inputs determines baseline impurity content, driving both yield and qualification scrap rate. Energy consumption and process water treatment add to cost, with price sensitivity tied to regional iron and citric acid market trends.
Market price movements trace mainly to iron salt price swings, which react to iron ore and steel industry cycles. Citric acid availability—affected periodically by fermentation capacity, feedstock corn price, or plant outages—adds secondary volatility. Unplanned regulatory action targeting impurity levels or production effluent can cause cost spikes by triggering unplanned process upgrades or raw material substitutions.
Customers specify application-driven grades: technical, USP/EP, food, or reagent. Certification level and impurity profile drive unit pricing. Higher-grade lots incur costly multiple crystallization, dedicated reactors, and increased QC labor for batch release. Pack sizes, inner packaging sterility, and traceability also shape the final price. Clients requiring ISO 22000, GMP, or similar certification face differentiated price tiers.
Demand for iron citrate hydrate splits between dietary supplement, food fortification, and industrial water treatment. Supply side is concentrated in Asia, with limited internal production in North America and Western Europe. Global output shifts with regional iron pricing policy and environmental standards. Asian plants dictate baseline cost, with localized surges driven by customs tariffs or logistics bottlenecks.
| Region | Supply Dynamics | Demand Dynamics |
|---|---|---|
| US | Relies heavily on import, especially for pharma and food uses; scattered smaller producers for industrial grades | Stable, driven by food and supplement segments; strong regulatory oversight increases documentation costs |
| EU | Tight impurity controls; batch validation increases manufacturer cost; most production remains specialty | Sustained growth in food, decline in water treatment; fast adoption of new standards requires rapid process change |
| JP | Limited domestic production; high value-add imports prioritized for food and pharmaceutical clients | Stable volume, high purity dominant |
| IN | Expanding capacity, primarily technical and food grade; bulk supply to regional markets | Rising use in water treatment and fortification; price sensitivity high |
| CN | Largest manufacturing hub; cost advantage in bulk supply, significant investment in purification upgrades | Major exporter, domestic consumption driven by food, supplement, and animal nutrition |
Forecast models suggest moderate cost increase into 2026 driven by continued energy price pressure, incremental regulatory tightening in key export economies, and periodic swings in citric acid input cost. High-purity and certified grades show more upward movement as input qualification and reporting requirements grow stricter. Producers with integrated iron salt capacity and energy price hedging gain margin resilience. The pricing premium between technical and food/pharmaceutical grade is projected to increase as regulatory compliance and audit demand push up release costs.
Analysis references international trade data, published raw material commodity prices, and direct feedback from manufacturing scheduling in main export sites. Price predictions derive from year-over-year cost base movement, internal cost accounting, and feedback from key account annual price negotiations. Regulatory and market event tracking reflects formal notification from regional chemicals agencies and observed import/export behavior at customs.
Recent years saw sporadic disruptions connected to citric acid fermentation supply in Asia and iron salt export restrictions from several countries, both impacting overall batch output. Pandemic-era logistics delays revealed vulnerabilities in shipping and increased industry-wide finished inventory holding. Sustainability and carbon accounting initiatives spread through the European and US industrial base; supply chain transparency requests increased batch-level documentation needs.
EU and US regulatory bodies continue strengthening impurity-by-metals thresholds for food and pharma applications. Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) updates have pushed for trace element and additive reporting down to sub-ppm levels for several key applications. Certification audits, especially in food and nutrition markets, now require full traceability from raw material source, driving process changes in sourcing and batch record management. Domestic rules in main producing countries shift as local authorities ramp up enforcement of environmental, labor, and waste discharge policies in chemical parks.
Manufacturing moved to more frequent raw material batch qualification and introduced in-process metals testing to control tighter customer release requirements. New reactor loading protocols, enhanced lot segregation, and increased sampling points form the backbone of contemporary quality assurance. Long-term raw material contracts and dual-source supply strategies help control volatility. Implementation of digital batch traceability and tighter customer audit access grew in response to traceability needs, locking in compliance at higher operating cost but greater long-term reliability. Tight partnerships with packaging suppliers responded to increased emphasis on tamper-evidence and barrier integrity.
Iron Citrate Hydrate stands out in several specialized sectors, each with its own preference for quality attributes and grade selection logic. In our experience, inquiries fall most often into the following areas:
| Field of Use | Preferred Grade | Grade Sensitivities |
|---|---|---|
| Nutritional / Food Fortification | Food/USP grade, low trace metals | Elemental iron content, arsenic, lead, mercury, compliance to food additive standards |
| Pharmaceutical Use | Pharma / compendia grade | High purity, validated low organic/elemental impurities, audit trail for raw material |
| Laboratory / Analytical | Analytical Reagent grade | Batch reproducibility, full impurity disclosure, soluble fraction clarity |
| Catalysis / Industrial Processing | Technical/Industrial grade | Accepts broader impurity range, consistent iron dispersibility, compatible hydration states |
Several measurable attributes receive special attention during product suitability assessments:
Start by describing the end-use to our technical support team in operational terms: for inclusion in a dietary supplement, ask for documentation supporting food contact; for chemical synthesis, specify reactivity or solubility range if needed. Past experience shows that early communication about the real process helps eliminate avoidable mismatches.
Traceability matters most where Iron Citrate Hydrate will enter human or animal systems. Popular frameworks include FCC, USP, EP, or similar pharmacopeias. Where local regulations add impurity or labeling rules, integrating them into the order specification avoids regulatory rework at release.
Minimum purity and maximum impurity thresholds need definition early. Expected tolerances differ not only by sector but also by regional standards. In technical grade, acceptance ranges for residual sulfate or chloride may vary depending on intended process compatibility, while food or pharma supplies come with stricter low-level impurity disclosure. Purity is finalized post multiple in-process control checks and a certificate issued against internal and customer-aligned thresholds.
Batch size, cost constraints, and logistical details often determine whether customized production is possible. Large-volume industrial users may receive continuous process output, while demanding laboratory clients tend to seek smaller, high-purity lots. Communicating these criteria up front helps align expectations on price breaks, lead times, and shipping SOPs.
Sampling remains key for formulation trials and product adoption. Customers regularly request pre-production sample lots for lab evaluation or pilot-scale trial. In these trials, solubility, flow behavior, and compatibility with other formulation ingredients can be verified. Manufacturer batch documentation is provided with each sample, outlining the analytical results and lot control history.
Our iron citrate hydrate manufacturing operation maintains a documented quality management system which aligns with the core requirements of internationally recognized standards such as ISO 9001. The actual approach and implementation detail vary according to facility location, product grade, market segment, and customer-specific audit outcomes. Our internal quality manual governs process controls, lot traceability, and documentation retention throughout all production stages. Third-party surveillance audits confirm operational reliability, but our internal audits frequently drive real-time operational adjustments based on production records, deviation logs, and customer feedback.
Compliance certification for iron citrate hydrate generally addresses elemental composition, impurity thresholds, and solubility characteristics. These parameters may differ by targeted application, such as food additives, pharmaceuticals, or technical reagents. Where customer requirements dictate, we participate in qualification batches, document-specific analyses, and provide certificates reflecting conformity to pharmacopeial monographs, food additive codes, or regional regulatory filings. Approvals or compliance declarations only reference substantiated batch test data, and any pharmaceutical or food-grade assurances depend on our source verification of raw materials, GMP-aligned production records, and validated test methods.
Comprehensive batch records accompany all lots and include raw material certificates, process control charts, analytical method reports, release specifications, and deviation justifications as needed. Commonly provided documents include the certificate of analysis, safety data sheets, and a traceability record referencing the manufacturing date, lot identification, and process route. Data integrity for documentation relies on both automated data logging at critical control points and supervisory reviews at batch release. Upon request, we furnish signed documents supporting supply chain traceability and regulatory filings, but all such reports reflect actual batch-specific data, not generic figures.
Regular production planning cycles and inventory management track both contracted and forecasted demand. Production capacity for iron citrate hydrate reflects installed equipment throughput, routine maintenance cycles, source material raw stock, and historical order volatility. For customers with variable requirements, we support production slot reservation, call-off order scheduling, and project-based capacity allocation by prior agreement. For those running long-term programs, framework agreements with scheduled deliveries provide volume-based pricing and priority slotting.
Centralized batch reactors and controlled drying systems define our core process infrastructure. Reactor scheduling matches order lead times to maximize product freshness and avoid overstock aging, which involves monitoring inventory turn alongside forward booking of raw material lots. Consistent output quality follows standardized operating procedures for each grade and explicit supplier qualification for input chemicals. Redundancy in either raw material supplier or isolated plant sections allows us to buffer against temporary disruptions.
Sample requests initiate through a technical review to clarify intended use, grade selection, and required documentation. Each sample dispatch is supported by traceable internal reference, certificate of analysis, and any supplementary compliance reports specified by the application segment. We may engage batch-specific production of small-scale lots when unique project requirements or advanced analytical studies are involved. For certain regulated applications, documentation may include additional test reports aligned to the target registration or qualification dossier.
Flexibility in order fulfillment spans bespoke packaging, batch size adjustment, and documentation support tailored to project requirements. Cooperative arrangements often include options for technical consultation before the initial purchase, joint development for customized grades, and value-added services like dedicated lot retention for specified shelf-life studies. Where customer business cycles fluctuate, we coordinate blending of made-to-order and stock-held supply. Contract manufacturing, toll synthesis, or label-neutral supply can be discussed for customers with specific confidentiality or branding needs.
Iron citrate hydrate’s research often centers on improving solubility for formulation in specialty chemicals and nutraceuticals. In industrial production, controlling the iron-to-citrate ratio in synthesis impacts both the stability and bioavailability in end applications. Quality assurance teams frequently review batch-to-batch variability related to chelation strength and trace metal content. Researchers also devote effort to optimizing particle size and bulk density for direct tableting and ingredient blending in finished formulations.
Most new interest in iron citrate hydrate comes from advanced nutrition products and electrolyte balance agents. Plant nutrition formulations—especially hydroponic and controlled-environment agriculture—demand reliable iron chelation at pH ranges influenced by local water chemistry. In biopharmaceutical process development, iron citrate is being assessed as a trace element source owing to its relative purity profile and controlled iron release properties. Customized grades for food fortification target solution clarity, taste neutrality, and absence of off-flavors or undesired metallic notes, all of which must be controlled at the production stage and validated with end-user formulations.
Production teams must manage iron source purity and citrate integrity to limit by-product build-up, particularly with respect to environmental and food safety requirements. Real-time monitoring of solution pH and oxidation-reduction potential during synthesis directly affects downstream filtration efficiency and crystalline product recovery. One persistent challenge is the effective removal of trace heavy metals and color bodies, which vary based on raw material lot and process control discipline. Recent breakthroughs in closed-loop water recycling and low-energy crystallization methods have reduced process waste and improved overall product quality, supporting both purity profiles and sustainability targets.
Demand is rising across food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural markets, shaped by regulatory shifts, consumer preference for bioavailable iron, and compliance requirements. Markets in North America and Europe require documented traceability and allergen status, which places pressure on process traceability and impurity control at each batch stage. Growth in Asia-Pacific is driven by the shift to fortified foods and fertilizer efficiency, requiring manufacturers to deliver both standard and customized grades.
Manufacturing technology has begun incorporating automation for critical process steps, especially during dosing and reaction control. This has improved batch consistency and reduced manual handling errors. Analytical methods for in-process monitoring, such as real-time spectral analysis of filter cake and mother liquor, enable more precise endpoint determination and reduce rework frequencies. Process validation protocols increasingly demand detailed impurity fingerprinting and total trace element balance, influencing equipment design (e.g., lined reactors, high-purity water) and secondary purification stages.
Sustainability initiatives focus on lowering water consumption per output unit and minimizing acid/base waste generation. Manufacturers are designing processes that reclaim unreacted citrate and recycle wash water for noncritical cleaning. Raw material procurement emphasizes supplier environmental compliance and green chemistry practices for both iron salts and citric acid. The transition to renewable energy sources in drying and milling operations is under review to further minimize carbon footprint, alongside development of greener cleaning solvents for production lines.
Customers receive support from technical teams that provide both application-specific recommendations and guidance on grade selection for particular process demands, such as bioavailability, dissolution rate, or compatibility in complex formulations. Technical staff are trained to address common production-side issues like agglomeration, discoloration, or off-odor development seen during scale-up or storage.
Process engineers and R&D scientists at the manufacturing facility routinely work with clients to optimize inclusion rates, blending techniques, and in-situ reactivity with co-ingredients, especially for large-batch premixes or direct compaction applications. Support covers adjustment of process water quality and checks for regulatory compliance of product batches against evolving regional standards. Detailed raw material and batch documentation can be provided for customer qualification programs or regulatory filings.
After-sales service is based on ongoing product performance monitoring, with structured feedback systems and root cause analysis for any deviation in delivered product quality. Returns, replacements, or technical visits are managed in alignment with established quality systems. Commitment extends to assistance with regulatory dossiers and product change notifications, particularly in high-sensitivity sectors like pharma, food, and plant nutrition compounds. The technical team maintains archived batch records and stability assessments to support client risk management and traceability requirements.
Iron Citrate Hydrate comes off our production line under strictly controlled conditions that reflect our long-term position as a chemical manufacturer. From raw ingredient entry to final inspection, every step and piece of production equipment in use here carries one purpose: factory-level control over the end product. Our batch records trace every shipment back to the original feedstock and each tank’s output gets matched to its detailed analytic profile before approval for dispatch.
This compound finds steady value as an iron source in water treatment, technical nutrient blends, catalyst formulations, and some specialty feed additives. Our experience in handling sensitive, high-purity chelates helps engineers and industrial chemists who rely on reproducible iron solutions. Plant chemists in plating, pigment processing, and fermentation consistently draw from the steady iron release and solubility performance our Iron Citrate Hydrate provides.
Factory methods define physical properties and chemical parameters. Particle size, hydrate content, free acid levels, and impurity threshold—each is set by our own COA standards established through repeated pilot runs and full-batch production. Instruments like ICP-OES and XRD inspect each batch. We keep archived retention samples and keep a continuous feedback loop between our lab and shop floor for technical adjustments. Every drum and intermediate bulk container gets a tally and documented QC sign-off before shipping, ensuring batch reproducibility across orders and time periods.
Packing operations connect directly to shipping and warehousing within the facility perimeter. Iron Citrate Hydrate leaves this facility in approved, moisture-resistant drums or lined supersacks suited for handling in automated industrial processes. Demand spikes and steady recurring orders both fit into our supply chain, as in-house filling capacity carries built-in reserve to smooth peak loads. Logistics teams plan routine and urgent departures, serving manufacturing destinations, blending facilities, and export hubs with clear lot segregation.
Technical personnel who support the manufacturing process know the chemistry behind this material and see how end-users apply it in real industrial setups. We answer requests for typical solubility tests, compatibility checks for customers’ formulas, and custom batch options. Downtime in users’ facilities is minimized because we supply analytical certificates, compositional disclosure, and application advice from the same technical staff responsible for process quality. We don’t pass technical support off to outside agents.
Manufacturing partners and commercial buyers look for a source that controls its own quality, delivers to specification, and smooths the purchasing cycle. By producing Iron Citrate Hydrate in our own facilities, we cover approval cycles, QA reviews, and traceability needs without uncertainty. Distributors that incorporate our product avoid withdrawal risk due to variable production sources. Procurement teams who want predictable supply with full documentation don’t need to track the origin through third parties. One production process, one route to market, and clear accountability underpin the value for business partners who depend on industrial-grade iron compounds.
Our iron citrate hydrate is produced using ferric salts and citric acid under conditions that promote precise crystallization. The most consistent compound yielded from this process aligns with the chemical formula FeC6H5O7 · xH2O, where “x” accounts for the water of hydration. The nature of the hydrate emerges from both synthesis control and finishing conditions. Most laboratories and formulators seek iron(III) citrate trihydrate or monohydrate, but we recognize variations exist due to water loss during storage or shipment. Our technicians monitor moisture content during final drying, targeting typical hydration consistent with technical literature and industry standards. Each batch undergoes analytical checks to verify both chemical composition and degree of hydration.
In specialty chemical manufacturing, tight control over final purity stands as the backbone of product consistency. For iron citrate hydrate, we routinely achieve product purities above 98%, as determined by total iron assay and minimal presence of residual sodium, chloride, or sulfate ions. Laboratory verification takes place with every production run. Details from our quality control records show that heavy metals—like lead, arsenic, and cadmium—fall well within strict maximum limits, supporting both safety and end-use requirements.
Applications such as food fortification, pharmaceuticals, or high-specification industrial additives depend on this high grade of purity. In manufacturing, controlling raw material input, batch process timing, temperature, and purification steps proves crucial. Any laxity during the purification process introduces risks of contamination, which can compromise subsequent process performance or end-product reliability. We regularly refine filtration and drying technology to minimize trace impurity carryover, ensuring our customers receive consistent product batch after batch. These improvements stem directly from active feedback with downstream partners who do not tolerate unexplained assay or physical parameter deviations.
Regulatory expectations evolve year after year. We invest considerable resources in meeting ever-changing purity, heavy metal content, and labeling regulations. Iron(III) citrate production at our facilities follows documented, auditable procedures audited by both in-house and external bodies. Traceability becomes critical, so we retain production and QC records for extended periods, supporting our partners’ quality management systems.
Impurities—from environmental sources or processing—remain a central concern. Our focus on source water quality, staff training, and environmental controls directly reduces risk of undesired byproducts or contamination. We actively research improved analytical techniques, such as ICP-MS for low-level trace metals, and adaptive water testing. This approach minimizes out-of-specification product and enhances confidence across customer projects.
Increasing emphasis on sustainability pushes us to review both our energy consumption and waste profiles. Innovations in crystallization technology deliver both sharper final assay results and more controlled hydration levels. We continue to consult directly with technical teams across multiple sectors, adapting product characteristics for powder flow, solubility, and compatibility within complex blends.
Our approach to iron citrate hydrate combines deep process knowledge, thorough analytical testing, and responsive product development. As application needs grow more demanding, our goal remains direct: deliver iron citrate hydrate that meets the practical, operational, and regulatory expectations of diverse industries, driven by firsthand experience and direct control over the entire manufacturing process.
Years of manufacturing iron citrate hydrate have shown us the difference proper packaging makes – not just for shipping, but for safety, handling, and your downstream process. Our standard lineup includes 25 kg fiber drums with inner polyethylene liners, which provide a strong balance of product protection and manageable weight for plant operators. For larger scale uses, we supply 500 kg super sacks and full-pallet quantities. All our packaging is weather-resistant and designed to prevent caking during storage, even in humid environments.
We developed these sizes based on direct feedback from chemical, nutrition, and agricultural processors who require smooth bulk unloading and minimal dust. From our end, every lot comes sealed and batch-coded for traceability. Upon request, we can offer custom packaging – whether that means different sack materials, double-bagging, or tailored palletization to suit automated warehousing systems.
On-time delivery is not just an internal metric for us—it’s the difference between seamless production for you and costly delays. We keep stock of several packaging formats for prompt dispatch. Regular orders for drums or sacks typically ship within 7–10 business days from order confirmation. For full-container loads or custom requests, our operations team coordinates with the plant floor to pin down a reliable schedule. Most high-volume jobs see production and loading completed within three weeks, with up-to-date status reports available at each step.
Every order—large or midsize—runs through our QC checks before shipment, so you receive product that matches our published assay and moisture specs. By investing in production capacity and inventory controls, we handle fluctuating demand—critical for customers running high-throughput lines or seasonal production campaigns.
Raw materials markets have seen a lot of volatility in recent years. Our pricing always reflects current conditions for iron salts and citric acid, as well as the real costs of energy, packaging, and logistics. By sourcing directly from our own integrated lines, we buffer some of the market swings and keep quotes clear and free from hidden surcharges.
We structure our pricing to favor scale. Higher volumes in standard packaging tiers qualify for progressive discounts. Orders exceeding several metric tons unlock the most competitive rates due to efficiencies in raw material procurement, batch production, and optimized shipping. For end users with continuous consumption, we also offer annual contract terms, locking in volume and price for predictable budgeting.
Every quote comes with a detailed breakdown showing unit cost, packaging surcharge (if any), and freight options based on destination. No markups from intermediaries, no bundled fees. Our sales documentation includes valid shelf life statements and compliance assurances. As with all bulk chemicals, we strictly adhere to international transport and labeling regulations.
We recognize many end users need more than just a bulk commodity. Our technical team provides certificates of analysis, product samples, and can support on-site audits upon request. We routinely engage with our customers’ R&D teams to fine-tune specifications or discuss alternative packaging. Fast, direct feedback is part of our commitment to being more than just a supplier – we aim to be a long-term partner in your production chain.
With decades of experience manufacturing iron citrate hydrate, we strive to back every order with service, consistency, and the flexibility that only a direct producer can provide. Whether your demand is routine or complex, we have the capacity and systems to deliver.
Iron citrate hydrate counts as a chemical specialty with very specific shipping, documentation, and storage demands. Years in the factory taught us that regulators expect thorough compliance, while real-world experience shows that careful stewardship from the moment we pack to the final unload makes the difference between a safe, on-spec delivery and a costly disruption.
Our shipments of iron citrate hydrate move under internationally recognized chemical transport codes— including UN Recommendations and local laws such as IMDG for maritime and ADR for road. This product does not fall into the most hazardous classes, but all cargo undergoes classification checks before release. The crew checks integrity of the packaging, verifies labeling standards, and confirms every drum or sack is tightly sealed. Our transport teams coordinate with logistics experts who understand the risks associated with handling iron salts, including the risks of spillage, contamination, and cross-contact. Careless handling can lead to lumping or caking, both of which can compromise product quality and pose processing problems downstream.
Only trained personnel load and unload iron citrate hydrate. Our staff rely on written procedures audited by third-party safety advisors. Forklift operators and warehouse staff work under site-specific written rules that focus on preventing puncture or rupture of containers, since accidental discharge raises both health and environmental concerns. Pallet height and stacking distances follow established company policies and are reinforced by regular safety drills.
Exporting or moving iron citrate hydrate requires full, accurate documentation. As a direct manufacturer, we issue a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for every batch, translated into the required language for each destination. Certificate of Analysis (COA) is provided with quantitative content and purity statistics, based on our own test data. Packing lists specify net and gross weights, lot numbers, and precise package counts. A commercial invoice ties these data points together, matching them to contractual and regulatory identifiers.
Shipping declarations include information on storage temperature recommendations and allergen status for those using the ingredient in foods or feeds. For certain countries, we attach dangerous goods declarations even when the product does not meet strict definitions of a hazardous material, simply because carrier protocols require clear, detailed product identities.
Iron citrate hydrate handles exposure poorly. Moisture is the biggest risk. Our standard packaging uses moisture-resistant liners within fiber drums or heavy polyethylene bags, sealed before leaving doors of production. For long-term storage, we recommend keeping product cool, dry, and shielded from direct sunlight. Our own storage protocols call for temperature control below 30 °C and humidity levels under 60%. Exceeding those recommendations encourages product degradation, discoloration, or the formation of insoluble aggregates.
Segregation from incompatible substances—strong acids, alkalis, oxidizing agents—remains critical. Cross-contamination from other minerals or dusts in a shared warehouse can compromise a shipment’s value. Weekly audits check surfaces, pallets, and container seals to keep these risks contained. Storage rooms set aside for iron citrate hydrate within our facility use cleanable floors and walls to guard against trace residues.
Regulations and documentation draw attention from customs, insurers, and inspection agencies. They are not just paperwork. Years of experience with iron salts taught us that each step in storage, shipment, and handling reflects on product quality and—ultimately—trust in our manufacturing process. We regularly review rules, consult incoming regulatory changes, and encourage clients to audit our processes. These measures protect both our finished goods and your finished products.
For product inquiries, sample requests, quotations or after-sales support, please feel free to contact me directly via sales3@ascent-chem.com, +8615365186327 or WhatsApp: +8615365186327
