trehalosecontaining

Trehalose-containing refers to materials and formulations that include trehalose, a non-reducing disaccharide composed of two glucose units. Trehalose acts as a stabilizer, humectant, and protective excipient, helping preserve biological activity during processing and storage. The term is widely used in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food, and cosmetic contexts.

Trehalose (C12H22O11) forms a stable glass at room temperature and can replace water molecules in biomolecules, reducing denaturation and aggregation during dehydration. In protein and vaccine formulations, trehalose-containing excipients enhance stability during freezing, drying, and transport. In foods and cosmetics, trehalose serves as a mild sweetener (roughly 45–50% of sucrose sweetness) and as a humectant to maintain moisture.

Production and sources: Trehalose occurs naturally in plants, fungi, bacteria, and some invertebrates. Industrial production relies on enzymatic synthesis from starch-derived glucose or maltose, followed by purification to food-grade or pharmaceutical-grade trehalose.

Applications: In vaccines and biologics, trehalose-containing formulations support long-term stability; in bakery and dairy products, it provides texture and sweetness; in cosmetics, it aids hydration and preservation of active ingredients.

Safety and regulation: Trehalose is widely used and generally regarded as safe in many jurisdictions, with product-specific regulatory requirements. Some studies have explored potential links between dietary trehalose and health outcomes, but evidence remains inconclusive and regulatory guidance continues to evolve.