What is Vitamin B5 (Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid))?
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is a water-soluble B-group vitamin essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier protein (ACP). Coenzyme A plays a central role in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, as well as in energy production. Its name comes from the Greek word 'pantos', meaning 'everywhere', as it is found in varying amounts in almost all foods.
- CAS number (main form): 79-83-4
- Molecular formula: C₉H₁₇NO₅
- Forms in catalog: Pantothenic Acid, Hangzhou Xinfu
What is Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Used For? Why is it Used?
Pantothenic acid lies at the very heart of the body's energy production and fat metabolism via coenzyme A. It also contributes to the synthesis of steroid hormones, vitamin D, and neurotransmitters, as well as mental performance and the reduction of fatigue. It is preferred by those looking to complete the B-complex balance and support general vitality.
Forms and Differences
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is available in different chemical forms; the choice of form is made based on bioavailability, stability, and intended use:
- Pantothenic acid: The natural, free active form of vitamin B5. It is water-soluble and, in its pure form, is hygroscopic (moisture-absorbing) and has low stability; therefore, a more stable salt form is generally used in supplements.
- Calcium pantothenate (calcium D-pantothenate): The most commonly used form in supplements and fortified foods. It is the calcium salt of pantothenic acid, is more stable, crystalline, and easier to process; it converts to pantothenic acid in the body. It is an approved source of B5 in EU and Turkish regulations.
- Dexpanthenol / panthenol: The alcohol form of pantothenic acid; it oxidizes to pantothenic acid in the body. It is particularly used in topical skin and mucosa care products.
Use in Dietary Supplements
- Energy metabolism: Since it plays a fundamental role in converting nutrients into energy via coenzyme A, B5 is widely used in supplements that support normal energy metabolism.
- Mental performance: Pantothenic acid contributes to normal mental performance; therefore, it is included in B-complex formulations aimed at focus and cognitive support.
- Hormone and neurotransmitter synthesis: It is used in formulations for general resilience and stress support because it contributes to the normal synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, vitamin D, and some neurotransmitters.
- Skin and hair care: The panthenol/dexpanthenol form is widely preferred as a moisturizing and restorative ingredient in skin and hair care products.
Use in the Food Industry
- Fortification source: Calcium D-pantothenate is an approved B5 source used in the fortification of breakfast cereals, infant formulas, clinical nutrition products, and beverages.
- Stability: While free pantothenic acid is hygroscopic and unstable, calcium pantothenate is stable; however, since B5 can degrade under excessive heat, acidic or alkaline environments, and prolonged thermal processing, the stable salt form is generally used in fortification.
Effects on Health
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is a vitamin that plays a role in many fundamental functions in the body. The main functions authorized/evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
- Energy metabolism: Pantothenic acid contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism (EFSA approved).
- Mental performance: Contributes to normal mental performance (EFSA approved).
- Hormone and vitamin D synthesis: Contributes to the normal synthesis and metabolism of steroid hormones, vitamin D, and some neurotransmitters (EFSA approved).
- Reduction of fatigue: Contributes to the reduction of fatigue and tiredness (EFSA approved).
Usage Limits in Dietary Supplements
- Nutrient Reference Value (NRV): NRV (1169/2011): Pantothenic acid 6 mg.
- Upper Intake Level (EFSA): EFSA has not established a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for pantothenic acid; no safe upper limit can be determined with current data, and its toxicity is very low.
- Turkish regulations (TETGK): Turkish Food Codex Dietary Supplements Regulation: Pantothenic acid is an approved vitamin; source forms (calcium D-pantothenate, D-pantothenic acid, dexpanthenol) are listed in the annexes. The minimum amount per serving must be at least 15% of the reference value (6 mg). The regulation does not specify a numerical maximum upper limit for supplements (not fabricated).
Pantothenic acid is generally well-tolerated even at very high doses; mild digestive discomfort (nausea, diarrhea) has been reported at very high doses. The absence of a UL indicates safety, but unlimited use is not recommended.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Purity | 98.0~102.0 |
| Appearance | White Powder |
| Moisture | ≤5.0 % |
| Solubility | Completely Soluble in Water |
Scientific Studies
The following independent studies relate to the bioavailability, use, and effects of this vitamin (study types are specified):
- PubMed 3976557 — Effects of supplemental pantothenic acid on wound healing (experimental study in rabbits)
- PubMed 31691401 — Potential role of B5: effect on cytokines (review)
Technical Documents and Supply — Asuka Kimya
You can contact Asuka Kimya for SDS, TDS, CoA, and supply conditions for Vitamin B5.
References
The usage and health information on this page has been compiled from official legislation/institution sources (EFSA, NIH ODS, Turkish Food Codex, EUR-Lex) and independent scientific publications (PubMed). The product is a food supplement/food raw material and is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of disease.