Sodium Phytate, Natural Chelator, 10 g

Sodium Phytate is a chelating agent of plant origin that binds metal ions in aqueous formulations and protects the product from their undesirable effects. It is derived from rice (Oryza sativa L.) and added in small quantities to support the efficacy of the preservation system and slow down the oxidation of oils in the finished product. Customers will barely notice this ingredient on the label, yet it does a great deal for the stability of creams, serums, and shampoos.

For manufacturers looking for an alternative to synthetic chelators such as EDTA, Sodium Phytate offers a plant-derived option with easy biodegradability according to OECD 301.

The role of a chelator in a formulation

Water, plant extracts, and many other raw materials contain traces of metal ions. Amounts that appear harmless at first glance can cause problems in the finished product. Preservatives lose part of their efficacy in their presence, and oils oxidise more quickly.

Sodium Phytate captures these ions in a stable complex in which they no longer react with the rest of the formulation. The preservation system can then work as intended, and sensitive ingredients remain unchanged for longer.

Key properties

• Chelating effect – binds metal ions in the aqueous phase, strengthening the preservation system and protecting sensitive ingredients.
• Antioxidant support – slows down the oxidation of oils and butters by neutralising the metals that accelerate it.
• Plant origin – raw material derived from rice, readily biodegradable, free of EDTA and palm oil derivatives.
• Water solubility – added directly to the aqueous phase, without pre-mixing in oil or solvent.
• Wide pH range – effective in formulations with a pH of 3 – 9, from acidic toners to cleansing products with a neutral pH.

Use in formulation

Sodium Phytate belongs to the aqueous phase. Dissolve the white powder in the initial water at the very start, before adding extracts, surfactants, and preservatives, so that it captures metals before they have a chance to bind to other ingredients. The recommended dosage is 0.1 – 0.2 % of the total weight of the formulation, i.e. 0.1 – 0.2 g per 100 g of cream or shampoo.

The processing temperature should remain below 80 °C, which is not a limitation in standard hot-process emulsification. Cold-process work is equally possible; the powder dissolves in water at room temperature with continuous stirring.

The raw material itself has an alkaline character; the pH of its solution ranges approximately between 10 and 12. After dissolving, therefore, check the pH of the aqueous phase and adjust it if necessary to the value required by the formulation.

Compatibility has been verified with anionic and non-ionic surfactants and in both neutral and acidic environments. With cationic conditioning ingredients or in formulations above pH 9, we recommend verifying behaviour in a test batch.

Suitable for products such as

• Shower gels, bath foams, and shampoos – supports the preservation system in products with a high water content.
• Facial creams, lotions, and serums – slows down the oxidation of plant oils in emulsions and aids preservation.
• Toners, hydrolat sprays, and hair rinses – works without restriction in acidic pH.
• Conditioners and hair masks – suitable for both rinse-off and leave-on products for the body, face, and hair.

Sodium Phytate is not suitable for anhydrous products, i.e. pure oils, butters, and balms. It will not dissolve in them and has nothing to bind to.

What's worth knowing

Sodium Phytate does not replace a preservative. It does not kill microorganisms on its own; it only helps the preservation system to work more effectively. In aqueous and emulsion formulations, it is therefore always combined with a full-value preservative.

The raw material is classified under the CLP Regulation as irritant and corrosive. Details on safe handling can be found in the safety data sheet.

Keep to the recommended dosage range. A higher dose shifts the pH of the formulation towards alkaline values and unnecessarily burdens it. Verify the effect with a stability test of the finished product.

Frequently asked questions