Zinc Bisglycinate
The Superior Bioavailable Zinc for Optimal Absorption & Gentleness
Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, playing a critical role in immune function, cellular metabolism, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and sensory functions. However, the efficacy of zinc supplementation is heavily dependent on its bioavailability and gastrointestinal tolerability. Zinc Bisglycinate, a chelated form where zinc is bound to two glycine molecules, represents a significant advancement in mineral delivery. It offers superior absorption, minimal gastrointestinal side effects, and excellent stability, making it the preferred choice for high-quality dietary supplements, functional foods, and nutraceuticals targeting immune support, skin health, and overall wellness.
Product Specifications
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Item
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Specification
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Product Name
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Zinc Bisglycinate
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Chemical Name
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Bisglycinato zinc; Zinc glycinate chelate
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CAS Number
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14281-83-5
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Molecular Formula
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C₄H₈N₂O₄Zn
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Molecular Weight
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213.51 g/mol
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Appearance
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Fine, white to off-white crystalline powder.
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Zinc Content (Elemental)
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Typically 20% - 25% (e.g., 21.5% min)
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Chelation Ratio
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1:2 (Zinc : Glycine), confirmed by HPLC or similar method.
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Purity (on dried basis)
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≥ 98.0%
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Solubility
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Freely soluble in water; forms a clear solution.
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pH (1% Solution)
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6.0 - 7.5 (near neutral)
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Heavy Metals (as Pb)
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≤ 10 ppm
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Lead (Pb)
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≤ 3 ppm
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Arsenic (As)
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≤ 3 ppm
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Cadmium (Cd)
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≤ 1 ppm
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Loss on Drying
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≤ 1.0%
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Residue on Ignition
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≤ 1.0%
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Microbiological Limits
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Total Plate Count: ≤ 1000 CFU/g Yeast & Mold: ≤ 100 CFU/g E. coli: Negative / Salmonella: Negative
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Shelf Life
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24 months minimum in original, unopened packaging.
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Storage Condition
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Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light and moisture.
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Why Choose Zinc Bisglycinate? The Science of Superior Absorption
Traditional zinc salts like Zinc Oxide or Zinc Sulfate have lower bioavailability and are more likely to cause gastric irritation (nausea, stomach upset) due to their dissociation in the acidic stomach environment, where they can compete with other minerals for absorption.
Zinc Bisglycinate utilizes a patented chelation process (e.g., Albion® TRAACS® technology):
1.Amino Acid Chelation: Zinc is bound to two molecules of the smallest amino acid, glycine, via stable coordinate covalent bonds, forming a neutrally charged, ring-like structure.
2.Protected Transport: This chelate remains intact through the stomach and is recognized by the intestinal amino acid transport pathways (specifically, the dipeptide transporter PepT1).
3.Enhanced Uptake: It is absorbed whole via these efficient pathways, bypassing the competitive, saturation-limited mineral ion channels used by inorganic zinc. This results in significantly higher absorption rates and reduced interference from dietary factors like phytates (found in grains and legumes).
Key Advantages:
Higher Bioavailability: Clinical studies suggest its absorption is up to 2-3 times greater than inorganic forms like Zinc Oxide.
Excellent GI Tolerance: The chelated form minimizes direct contact of free zinc ions with the gastric mucosa, virtually eliminating common side effects like nausea and gastric discomfort.
No Food Interference: Can be taken with or without food, as its absorption is less inhibited by dietary components.
Superior Stability: The chelate bond protects the zinc from unwanted interactions in premixes and finished products.
Key Health Benefits & Applications
Immune System Support: Zinc is crucial for the normal development and function of innate immune cells (neutrophils, NK cells) and adaptive immunity (T and B lymphocytes). Adequate zinc status helps maintain immune barrier integrity and supports a healthy inflammatory response.
Skin Health & Wound Healing: Essential for collagen synthesis, cellular proliferation, and anti-inflammatory processes. Beneficial for acne management, eczema, and promoting faster wound repair.
Antioxidant Defense: A component of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Cognitive & Mood Support: Zinc plays a role in neurotransmitter function and hippocampal activity, linked to learning, memory, and mood regulation.
Reproductive Health: Vital for hormone metabolism, sperm production, and ovarian function.
Sense of Taste & Smell: Required for the proper function of gustin, a protein essential for taste bud development and maintenance.
Recommended Forms & Dosage
Form: Available as a standalone powder for encapsulation/tableting, or as a pre-blended ingredient in multivitamin/mineral complexes, immunity blends, and sports nutrition products.
Typical Dosage (Elemental Zinc): Common supplemental doses range from 15 mg to 30 mg per day. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults is 8-11 mg/day. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for adults is 40 mg/day from supplements and food combined.
Synergistic Combinations: Often paired with Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Elderberry for enhanced immune support, or with Copper in a balanced ratio (typically 10-15:1 Zn:Cu) to prevent copper depletion with long-term, high-dose zinc use.
Market Comparison: Zinc Forms
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Zinc Form
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Elemental Zn %
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Bioavailability
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GI Tolerance
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Key Consideration
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Zinc Bisglycinate (Chelate)
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~20-25%
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Very High
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Excellent
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Premium form, superior absorption, high stability.
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Zinc Picolinate
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~20%
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High
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Good
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Well-absorbed chelated form.
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Zinc Citrate
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~31%
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Moderate to High
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Good
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Common in supplements, better absorbed than inorganic forms.
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Zinc Gluconate
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~14%
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Moderate
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Fair
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Common in lozenges and supplements.
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Zinc Sulfate
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~23%
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Low
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Poor (High GI upset)
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Inexpensive, used in fortification, not ideal for supplements.
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Zinc Oxide
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~80%
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Very Low
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Poor
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Used in topical products (sunscreen, diaper cream) and food fortification due to high zinc content but very poor absorption.
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Formulation & Stability Notes for Manufacturers
Compatibility: Highly compatible with most excipients and other nutrients in solid dosage forms. Its neutral pH and chelated structure minimize interactions.
Application: Ideal for capsules, tablets (including chewables), powder sticks, and liquid formulations. Its water solubility facilitates clear solution formulations.
Labeling: Can be declared as "Zinc (from Zinc Bisglycinate)" or "Zinc Bisglycinate (Chelated Zinc)".
Target Consumer & Positioning
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Consumers seeking high-efficacy supplements with minimal side effects.
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Individuals with sensitive stomachs who cannot tolerate other zinc forms.
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Immune support formulas for year-round or seasonal use.
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Skin health and beauty-from-within blends.
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Sports nutrition products for recovery and metabolic support.
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Senior formulations where optimal nutrient absorption is a priority.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1.Is Zinc Bisglycinate better than other forms?
For oral supplementation where absorption efficiency and GI comfort are priorities, Zinc Bisglycinate is considered one of the superior forms. Clinical evidence supports its high bioavailability.
2.Can it be taken on an empty stomach?
Yes, one of its key advantages is excellent gastrointestinal tolerance, making it suitable for administration with or without food.
3.What is the recommended ratio if combining with Copper?
A general guideline is to maintain a zinc-to-copper ratio between 10:1 and 15:1 in a supplement to prevent copper deficiency with long-term zinc supplementation. For example, 30 mg of zinc may be paired with 2-3 mg of copper (e.g., Copper Bisglycinate).
4.Is it suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
Yes, the glycine used in high-quality chelation is typically synthetic or plant-derived, making it suitable for vegetarian and vegan formulations.
Partner with a Trusted Supplier for Premium Chelated Minerals
Choosing the right zinc source is critical for your product's efficacy and consumer satisfaction. We supply premium, high-purity Zinc Bisglycinate that is rigorously tested for chelation integrity, heavy metals, and microbiological safety. Backed by full regulatory documentation (COA, TDS, Allergen Statement, Non-GMO, etc.) and available for OEM/ODM projects, bulk supply, and custom premix development.
Elevate your immune or wellness formula with the gold standard in zinc supplementation. Contact us today for technical data, samples, and competitive pricing.