What Is DL-Alanine ()? Applications, Dosage, Alternatives & Specifications

DL-Alanine, also known as DL-α-Alanine, DL-2-Aminopropanoic acid, or DL-α-Aminopropionic acid, is a racemic mixture of alanine, consisting of equal amounts of L-alanine and D-alanine. Alanine belongs to the aliphatic class of amino acids and is one of the 20 basic amino acids that constitute proteins. The molecular formula of DL-Alanine is C3H7NO2, molecular weight is 89.09, CAS number is 302–72–7, EINECS number is 206–126–4, and MDL number is MFCD00064408. DL-Alanine appears as colorless to white needle-like crystals or crystalline powder, odorless, with a sweet taste and a taste threshold of approximately 0.06%. It is chemically stable, not easily deteriorated in air, and can be converted to L-lactic acid when reacted with nitrous acid. The pH of a 10% aqueous solution is 5.5–7.0. DL-Alanine has no optical activity (racemic mixture, specific rotation close to 0), which is an important indicator distinguishing it from L-alanine and D-alanine. As a food additive, DL-Alanine is classified as a nutritional supplement, flavor enhancer, and acidity regulator. It is permitted under GB 2760. According to FEMA standards, usage levels are 75–375 mg/kg in baked goods and 50–250 mg/kg in non-alcoholic beverages, egg products, and fish products. It is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the US FDA, with very low toxicity. As a non-essential amino acid, DL-Alanine can be synthesized from other amino acids in the human body, but under certain conditions (such as intense exercise or disease recovery), exogenous supplementation may be required. It is naturally present in meat, dairy products, and certain vegetables.

Appearance: Colorless to white needle-like crystals or crystalline powder, odorless, with a sweet taste.

Molecular Formula and Molecular Weight: C3H7NO2, molecular weight 89.09.