Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol): Specifications and Applications
Technical Overview
Vitamin D3, scientifically known as cholecalciferol (C27H44O), is a fat-soluble secosteroid with a molecular weight of 384.64 g/mol. It represents the natural form of vitamin D produced in the skin when exposed to ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation from sunlight. In its pure form, Vitamin D3 appears as a white crystalline solid that exhibits solubility in organic solvents but remains insoluble in water.
The biological significance of Vitamin D3 stems from its role as a precursor to calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol), the physiologically active form of vitamin D. This conversion occurs through hydroxylation processes in the liver and kidneys. Vitamin D3 potency is typically measured in International Units (IU), with various commercial formulations offering different concentrations to suit specific applications.
Applications & Advantages
Vitamin D3 finds extensive applications across multiple industries due to its crucial biological functions:
Nutritional Supplements
- Dietary supplements addressing vitamin D deficiency
- Food fortification programs (dairy products, cereals, juices)
- Specialized formulations for vulnerable demographics
Pharmaceutical Applications
- Treatment of osteoporosis, rickets, and osteomalacia
- Management of hypocalcemia and related disorders
- Therapeutic applications in immune system modulation
Animal Nutrition
- Poultry feed additives enhancing egg production and bone development
- Livestock nutrition supplements improving calcium metabolism
- Pet food fortification supporting overall health
Commercial Development
The commercial journey of Vitamin D3 began with its isolation in the 1930s, following the discovery of vitamin D's role in preventing rickets. Industrial production commenced in the 1950s, primarily utilizing lanolin (wool grease) as the starting material for UV irradiation to produce cholecalciferol.
The global market has been dominated by established manufacturers including DSM (Quali-D® brand, Netherland), BASF(Germany), Zhejiang Garden Biochemical High-Tech(China), Jiangxi Tianxin Pharmaceutical(China), Taizhou Hisound Pharmaceutical(China), Fermenta Biotech Limited(India). These companies have continuously refined production methods, improving purity, stability, and formulation technologies to meet evolving industry requirements.
Recent decades have witnessed significant advancements in biotechnological approaches to Vitamin D3 production, alongside innovations in stabilization techniques that enhance product shelf-life and efficacy.
Current Offering
Shenzhen Bohr Chemical Co., Ltd currently distributes premium-quality Vitamin D3 in four key specifications from reliable manufacturers:
| Product | Specification | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D3 Crystalline | 40M IU/G | Highest potency form ideal for pharmaceutical formulations or food/feed premixes requiring concentrated input |
| Vitamin D3 Oil | 1M IU/G | Enhanced bioavailability suitable for liquid supplements and soft gel capsules |
| Vitamin D3 Dry Powder | 100,000 IU/G | Excellent stability and ease of handling for food premix manufacturing and dry blending |
| Vitamin D3 Coated | 100,000 IU/G | Superior protection against environmental degradation with controlled release properties |
| Vegan sourced Vitamin D3 | 100,000 IU/G | Ideal for vegan-based products and dietary supplements |
Bohr Chemical serves both domestic and international clients with these specialized Vitamin D3 formulations, maintaining rigorous quality control standards and reliable supply chain management to ensure consistent product excellence.
For inquiries regarding Vitamin D3 specifications, applications, or procurement, contact Shenzhen Bohr Chemical Co., Ltd—your trusted partner in chemical distribution.