This section focuses on an overview of kojic acid powder as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to kojic acid manufacturers, supply chain issues, kojic acid suppliers, and kojic acid prices. Sinofi’s technical sales can help you buy high-quality kojic acid in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on CAS 501-30-4.
Table of Contents
What is Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid, also named 5-Hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone, is a natural compound derived from various species of fungi during the fermentation process. It is commonly used in the fermentation of rice for sake, soy sauce, and miso production. Kojic acid (chemical formula C₆H₆O₄) is a chelation agent, meaning it binds to metal ions. Its key functional property is the ability to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme essential for melanin production in skin cells. It is a small organic molecule with powerful antioxidant properties. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), kojic acid is approved for use in drug compounding and cosmetics. Kojic acid is often combined with other brightening agents like vitamin C, arbutin, or niacinamide to enhance efficacy while potentially reducing irritation. Kojic acid has also been evaluated by major regulatory bodies like JECFA, ECHACHEM, EU-SCCS, and Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
CAS No.: 501-30-4
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of kojic acid is 501-30-4.
Molecular Formula: C6H6O4
Molecular Mass: 142.11
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Kojic Acid in EU
According to the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP), kojic acid is used in cosmetic products as a skin whitening or depigmenting agent.
Bulk Kojic Acid Manufacturers
The global kojic acid market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing demand from the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. The kojic acid production capacity is dominated by established manufacturers like Sigma Aldrich with strong technical capabilities and quality control systems. Asian kojic acid manufacturers, particularly from Japan and China, lead the market, while European and North American manufacturers focus on high-purity kojic acid powder for specialized applications.
Sinofi is a bulk kojic acid manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of kojic acid powder. We supply high-quality kojic acid at bulk prices and serve the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Kojic Acid
The manufacturing of kojic acid is a sophisticated process that can be accomplished through biological fermentation
Microorganism Selection
Primary organisms used:
- Aspergillus oryzae
- Aspergillus flavus
- Aspergillus parasiticus
- Penicillium strains
Media Preparation
Basic Media Components
- Glucose or other carbohydrate source (10-12%)
- Yeast extract (1-2%)
- Peptone (0.5-1%)
- Minerals and trace elements
- pH adjustment to 5.5-6.0
Sterilization Parameters
- Temperature: 121°C
- Pressure: 15 psi
- Duration: 15-20 minutes
- Cooling to fermentation temperature
Fermentation Process
Seed Culture Preparation
- Inoculum development (24-48 hours)
- Scale-up in stages
- Quality checks for contamination
- Viability assessment
Production Fermentation
Initial Phase (0-24 hours)
- Temperature: 28-30°C
- pH: 5.5-6.0
- Dissolved oxygen: >30%
- Agitation: 200-250 rpm
Growth Phase (24-72 hours)
- Temperature maintenance
- pH monitoring and adjustment
- Increased agitation as needed
- Nutrient feeding, if required
Production Phase (72-240 hours)
- Temperature reduction to 25-28°C
- pH control between 4.5-5.5
- Dissolved oxygen maintenance
- Continued agitation
Downstream Processing
Separation and Filtration
Biomass Removal
- Centrifugation
- Filtration
- Membrane separation
Initial Clarification
- Depth filtration
- Microfiltration
- Ultrafiltration
Purification Process
Primary Purification
- Ion exchange chromatography
- Activated carbon treatment
- Crystallization
- Filtration
Final Purification
- Recrystallization
- Drying
- Milling
- Sieving
Manufacturing kojic acid requires careful attention to process parameters, quality control, and safety measures. Success depends on maintaining optimal conditions throughout the production process and implementing robust quality assurance systems.
Bulk Kojic Acid Suppliers
The global kojic acid supply is dominated by established suppliers in China and Japan. Chinese kojic acid suppliers offer competitive bulk pricing and high-quality standards. Japanese suppliers focus on premium quality and comprehensive support. When selecting a kojic acid supplier, buyers should consider factors such as quality requirements, technical support needs, pricing constraints, and supply chain reliability.
Sinofi is a bulk kojic acid supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality kojic acid powder. We supply different grades of kojic acid at wholesale prices.
Supply Chain of Kojic Acid
The kojic acid supply chain represents a complex network of stakeholders, processes, and relationships that facilitate the journey from raw material procurement to end-user delivery. It requires careful management and coordination among various stakeholders.
Supply Chain Structure
Raw Material Suppliers
- Agricultural producers (rice, corn, other starch sources)
- Microorganism suppliers (Aspergillus oryzae strains)
- Chemical precursor suppliers
- Packaging material manufacturers
Manufacturers
- Primary kojic acid producers
- Contract manufacturers
- Toll manufacturers
Distributors and Wholesalers
- Regional distributors
- Chemical wholesalers
- Specialty ingredient distributors
- Bulk suppliers
End-Product Manufacturers
- Cosmetic companies
- Pharmaceutical manufacturers
- Food industry processors
- Research institutions
Success in this market depends on understanding and effectively managing the intricate relationships between different supply chain tiers while maintaining flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.
Wholesale and Buy Kojic Acid in Bulk
Successful wholesale purchasing of kojic acid in bulk often involves maintaining relationships with multiple suppliers across different tiers to ensure supply security and price competitiveness. Kojic acid buyers should develop comprehensive purchasing strategies that address quality assurance, logistics, and regulatory compliance while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Building strong relationships with reliable kojic acid suppliers, implementing robust quality control measures, and maintaining proper documentation are essential for long-term success in procurement.
As a bulk kojic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality kojic acid powder to large cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food manufacturers worldwide. We also wholesale kojic acid powder to small customers. Normally, they want to buy kojic acid powder in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale kojic acid at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Kojic Acid Prices (USD/Kg)
Cosmetic Grade Kojic Acid Price (Purity>=99.0%, on dry base)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 8 USD | Express |
| 500g | 30 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 45 USD /Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 15% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Kojic acid prices are influenced by multiple factors, including production costs, market demand, and regional variations. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for buyers, manufacturers, and traders in the kojic acid industry. Kojic acid buyers should develop comprehensive pricing strategies that consider volume requirements, quality specifications, and market conditions. Regular monitoring of kojic acid price trends and maintaining strong supplier relationships are essential for optimal procurement outcomes.
Furthermore, the above kojic acid price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of kojic acid may exceed the value of the sample. But the bulk wholesale prices of kojic acid will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Kojic Acid Uses
Kojic acid is widely used in cosmetics and skin care products, primarily for its ability to lighten skin and address various skin concerns. It is also used in the food and pharmaceutical industries:
Cosmetic Industry
- Skin lightening creams
- Anti-aging products
- Spot treatment formulations
- Body care products
- Professional treatments
Food Industry
- Natural preservative
- Color preservation in certain foods
- Antioxidant additive
- Processing aid in fermented foods
Medical Applications
- Treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders
- Component in medical-grade skin treatments
- Research into antimicrobial applications
- Development of pharmaceutical formulations
Kojic Acid Benefits
The primary benefits of using kojic acid include:
Skin Lightening
- Inhibits melanin production by blocking tyrosinase activity.
- Helps fade dark spots, age spots, and sun damage.
- Promotes more even skin tone.
- Can help reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Antioxidant Properties
- Protects skin from free radical damage.
- Helps prevent premature aging.
- Supports overall skin health.
- Complements other antioxidant ingredients.
Antimicrobial Effects
- Exhibits antibacterial properties.
- May help with acne-prone skin.
- Can preserve cosmetic formulations naturally.
Kojic Acid Used in Cosmetics
A Cosmetic Containing Hydrolyzed Sponge – Formulation by Weight
Ingredients: Jojoba oil, 7 parts; palm wax, 8 parts; Aloe extract, 6 parts; Peptide, 0.2 parts; Fullerene, 0.8 parts; Niacinamide, 2 parts; α-Arbutin, 5 parts; Glabridin, 0.2 parts; Kojic acid, 0.6 parts; Hydrolyzed sponge, 12 parts; Auxiliary additives, 1.3 parts; Penetration-promoting peptide, 0.15 parts; Water, 85 parts.
Auxiliary additives include parabens, xanthan gum, vitamin E, and microcrystalline cellulose in a mass ratio of 1: 2: 0.6:1.
In conclusion, kojic acid powder represents a significant advancement in natural skin-brightening agents. Its versatility, natural origin, and proven effectiveness make it a valuable ingredient in food, cosmetic, and medical applications. As a bulk kojic acid manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of kojic acid powder at bulk prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.