Sodium salt of formic acid as feeding additives

Sodium formate, a sodium salt of formic acid with the chemical formula HCOONa, is primarily synthesized through the neutralization reaction of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with formic acid (HCOOH). This straightforward production method yields a compound characterized by its low toxicity and specific reactivity, making it a versatile and relatively safe chemical for a wide array of applications. Its utility spans critical industrial sectors, including its use as a de-icing agent for airport runways, a reducing agent in dyeing and printing processes for textiles, and a crucial component in leather tanning, where it helps stabilize chromium salts. Furthermore, its acceptance in the food and pharmaceutical industries as a mild preservative and buffering agent is a direct result of its favorable safety profile. A key physicochemical property is its insolubility in most organic solvents, which contrasts with its high solubility in water, a characteristic that defines many of its applications.

The material is supplied as a white, free-flowing crystalline powder, ensuring easy handling and accurate dosing. Its unique identity is confirmed by CAS No. 141-53-7. Quality and consistency are guaranteed through international certifications such as REACH and ISO. A defining characteristic is its high solubility in water, resulting in a weakly alkaline aqueous solution, which is instrumental in its function as a buffer in various chemical and biological systems.

Within animal feed, sodium formate is recognized as a safe and effective nutritional supplement. According to regulatory assessments, it is considered safe for all animal species when included in complete feed at a maximum concentration of 10,000 mg/kg (expressed as formic acid equivalents). Its primary role is as a dietary source of sodium, an essential mineral for physiological functions including nerve transmission and fluid balance. Importantly, scientific studies indicate that, at recommended usage levels, it has no discernible negative effects on the beneficial microbial populations in feed materials. This makes it a reliable choice for providing essential sodium without disrupting the delicate microbial ecosystem of the feed or the animal's digestive tract, thereby supporting overall animal health and productivity. Its stability and non-hygroscopic nature further contribute to its reliability as a feed additive.