Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Introduction
Folic Acid, also known as Vitamin B9, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in one-carbon metabolism, nucleic acid synthesis, cell division, and tissue development. It is particularly important during periods of rapid growth, tissue formation, and reproduction.
In animal nutrition, Folic Acid is commonly used as a feed additive and as part of vitamin premixes. Adequate folate supplementation helps support normal growth and development, blood cell formation, reproductive function, and overall physiological health in poultry, swine, livestock, and other animals.
CAS
59-30-3 — Folic Acid
Molecular Formula
C19H19N7O6
Structural Formula
Folic Acid consists of a pteridine ring system linked to para-aminobenzoic acid and glutamic acid.
Physicochemical Properties
Folic Acid is an orange-yellow to yellow crystalline powder. It is practically insoluble in water, soluble in alkaline solutions, and slightly soluble in certain organic solvents.
Folic Acid is sensitive to light and can undergo degradation when exposed to heat, particularly under acidic conditions. Appropriate storage and handling are therefore important to maintain product quality and vitamin activity.
Application
Folic Acid is an essential vitamin widely used in poultry, swine, livestock, ruminant, and other animal nutrition applications. It participates in folate-dependent one-carbon transfer reactions that are essential for nucleotide synthesis, amino acid metabolism, and cell division.
Adequate Folic Acid supplementation helps:
- Support nucleic acid synthesis and normal cell division
- Promote healthy growth and tissue development
- Support normal blood cell formation
- Contribute to amino acid and one-carbon metabolism
- Support reproductive and developmental functions
- Help maintain normal physiological function
- Help prevent folate deficiency
- Support overall animal health and production performance
Folic Acid is therefore an important component of animal feed, vitamin premixes, compound feed, and nutritional supplements.
