Pantothenic acid

Sources: Pantothenic acid belongs to the group of B vitamins and is present in almost every type of food. It is particularly abundant in yeast and organ meats (liver, kidney, heart, brain), but eggs, milk, vegetables, legumes and whole-grain cereals are probably more common sources. Processed foods contain smaller amounts, unless that lost during processing is replaced afterwards. Pantothenic acid is synthesized by intestinal microorganisms, but the amount produced and its role in human nutrition are unknown.

Below: A microscopic piture of pantothenic acid

Functions: Pantothenic acid is vital for the release of energy from food, for healthy growth and for the production of antibodies. Pantothenic acid requires vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folic acid and biotin in order to function properly.

Applications: Panthenol is often used in cosmetic products. In skin care products, it helps to keep the skin moist and supple, stimulates cell growth and tissue repair and inhibits inflammation and reddening. As a moisturizer and conditioner in hair care products, it protects against and repairs damage due to chemical and mechanical procedures (brushing, combing, shampooing, perming, colouring, etc.), and imparts sheen and lustre. Panthenol is often called "pro-vitamin B5" in advertising literature

Product forms: DSM Nutritional Products supplies pantothenic acid as calcium D-pantothenate in a spray-dried form, for feed, food and pharmaceutical use, and as panthenol for cosmetic products.