Magnesium Taurate: Properties, Solubility and Specifications
Magnesium taurate (CAS 334824-43-0) is the magnesium salt of taurine, supplied as a white, water-soluble powder for supplement and functional-food applications. Because it is defined by a specification rather than a pharmacopoeial monograph, buyers who understand its properties — and especially its solubility and magnesium content — can specify and source it far more effectively.
This guide focuses on the properties that matter commercially and on the specification you should agree with a supplier. For the full product background, see our main article on magnesium taurate (CAS 334824-43-0).
Identity at a Glance
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | Magnesium taurate |
| CAS number | 334824-43-0 |
| Composition | Magnesium + taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) |
| Nominal formula | Mg(C2H6NO3S)2 |
| Nominal molecular weight | Approx. 272.6 g/mol (anhydrous) |
| Magnesium content | Approx. 8–9% by weight |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
Why Solubility Matters
The single most useful property of magnesium taurate is that it dissolves in water, distinguishing it from insoluble inorganic sources such as magnesium oxide. Solubility determines where the ingredient can be used and how easily it is processed:
- Beverages and stick packs. A soluble mineral source disperses cleanly and does not sediment, so drinks can be formulated without the chalky residue an insoluble oxide leaves behind.
- Gummies and soft chews. A soluble powder disperses easily into the confectionery matrix and gives a uniform product.
- Liquid capsules and shots. Dissolved magnesium delivers the mineral without the need for suspension aids.
- Manufacturing. Solubility simplifies wet-processing steps and helps avoid the uniformity problems that insoluble powders can cause.
Solubility, pH and Solution Behaviour
Magnesium taurate dissolves readily in water at typical use levels. Aqueous solutions are mildly alkaline to near-neutral, and the exact pH depends on concentration and on the grade. Points worth confirming on the bench:
| Attribute | Behaviour | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Water solubility | Soluble | Enables clear and liquid formats |
| Solution pH | Mildly alkaline to near-neutral | Affects flavour, stability and compatibility |
| Clarity | Grade-dependent | A clarified grade may be needed for clear drinks |
| Compatibility | Ionic mineral source | Check interactions with strong chelators and other ions |
The Specification You Should Agree
Because magnesium taurate is sold against a specification, the specification itself is the product. The table below lists the parameters to fix with your supplier.
| Parameter | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Magnesium content | The target percentage (commonly 8–9% anhydrous), and whether it is on an anhydrous or as-is basis |
| Taurine content | Consistent with the magnesium content and stoichiometry |
| Appearance | White to off-white powder |
| Loss on drying | Grade-dependent moisture limit |
| pH (solution) | Agreed range |
| Heavy metals | Within applicable limits |
| Microbiology | Limits appropriate to food/supplement use |
| Particle size | Agreed for flow and blend uniformity |
| Documentation | COA, SDS, and food-grade or other statements as needed |
Test Methods
- Magnesium assay by complexometric titration, or instrumentally by ICP-OES or atomic absorption.
- Identity and stoichiometry, for example by confirming the taurine-to-magnesium ratio.
- Moisture by loss on drying.
- Heavy metals by standard methods, plus microbiological testing for supplement grades.
- Solution clarity and pH where liquid formats are the target.
Common Specification Pitfalls
- Basis confusion. Failing to state whether magnesium content is on an anhydrous or as-is basis can change the dosing calculations.
- Unspecified clarity. A grade that meets the assay but not the solution clarity required for a clear drink causes rework.
- Particle size neglected. Poor flow can ruin blend uniformity and tabletting.
- Documentation assumed. Food-grade, non-GMO, halal or kosher statements are not automatic; ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAS number of magnesium taurate?
334824-43-0.
How soluble is magnesium taurate in water?
It is water-soluble and dissolves at typical use levels, which is why it is used in beverages, gummies and liquid formats. For clear drinks, confirm solution clarity for the specific grade.
What is the magnesium content of magnesium taurate?
Approximately 8–9% by weight on an anhydrous basis, agreed precisely with the supplier.
What pH does a magnesium taurate solution have?
Aqueous solutions are mildly alkaline to near-neutral; the exact value depends on concentration and grade.
What is the molecular formula?
Nominally Mg(C2H6NO3S)2, giving a nominal molecular weight of about 272.6 g/mol.