natriumlaktaatin

Natriumlaktaatin, widely known as sodium lactate, is the sodium salt of lactic acid (2-hydroxypropanoic acid). Its chemical formula is C3H5NaO3 and it typically exists as an anhydrous salt or as a monohydrate; it is highly soluble in water.

It is produced by neutralizing lactic acid with sodium hydroxide, or by fermentation of carbohydrates to lactic acid followed by neutralization. Commercial sodium lactate often derives from fermentation-derived lactic acid.

In the food industry it is used as an acidity regulator, humectant, and preservative under the code E325. In medicine, it is a component of Lactated Ringer's solution, where lactate acts as a buffer to help correct acidosis. In cosmetics, it serves as a humectant and pH adjuster.

Commercial sodium lactate is typically a racemic mixture of D- and L- forms; fermentation products usually yield predominantly L-lactate. In the body, lactate is metabolized to bicarbonate by the liver, which can help counter metabolic acidosis.

Safety and handling: sodium lactate is generally regarded as safe at typical use levels, but excessive intake increases the sodium load. People with liver impairment or certain electrolyte restrictions should exercise caution, and concentrated solutions can be irritating to skin and mucous membranes.