Description

Monascin is a secondary metabolite and a characteristic orange-red azaphilone pigment produced by *Monascus* species fungi. This compound is valued for its natural colorant properties and its potential as a functional ingredient in various industries. It is primarily sought after by manufacturers in the food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic sectors seeking natural alternatives to synthetic dyes and additives. Our supply of Monascin CAS NO 21516-68-7 ensures consistent quality and reliable sourcing for your production needs.

Application

• Natural Food Colorant: Used as a safe, natural coloring agent in fermented foods, sauces, meat products, and beverages to impart stable orange-red hues.
• Dietary Supplements & Nutraceuticals: Incorporated into formulations for its potential bioactive properties, contributing to product differentiation and health positioning.
• Cosmetics & Personal Care: Employed as a natural pigment in lipsticks, blushes, and other color cosmetics where natural ingredient sourcing is a key marketing advantage.
• Pharmaceutical Research: Serves as a reference standard or an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) intermediate in research focused on its biological activities.
• Animal Feed Additive: Utilized as a natural pigment source in poultry feed to enhance the coloration of egg yolks and animal skin.
• Functional Food Ingredient: Added to food products not only for color but also for its associated functional benefits, aligning with clean-label trends.

Basic Information

Product Name	Monascin
CAS No.	21516-68-7
Molecular Formula	C21H26O5
Molecular Weight	358.43 g/mol
Synonyms	Monascin; Monascine; (3R,5R)-3,5-Dihydroxy-8-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-1-prop-1-en-2-yl-6,7-dihydro-5H-isochromen-4-one; 6,7-Dihydro-3,5-dihydroxy-8-methoxy-3,5-dimethyl-1-(1-methylethenyl)-4H-isochromen-4-one; Monascus Pigment (component); Natural Orange 5 (related)
EINECS	Contact for details

Quality Control

Our Monascin is produced and tested under strict quality management systems to ensure it meets the high standards required for food, nutraceutical, and research applications. Each batch is analyzed for identity, purity, and key impurities using validated methods such as HPLC. A comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing all test results is provided with every shipment to guarantee traceability and compliance with your specifications.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry place at a controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Due to its hygroscopic (moisture-sensitive) nature, the container must be kept tightly sealed after opening to prevent moisture absorption. For long-term storage, consider using desiccants.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Orange-red to red powder
Identification (IR)	Conforms to reference spectrum
Assay (HPLC)	≥ 95.0%
Loss on Drying	≤ 2.0%
Residue on Ignition	≤ 1.0%
Heavy Metals (as Pb)	≤ 20 ppm
Solvent Residues	Meets ICH guidelines
Microbiological Tests	Meets standard limits for intended use

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.