Betaïne
Description
Humectant, osmolyte, osmoprotectant; zwitterionic; stabilizes cellular protein structure under osmotic stress; non-tacky sensory profile; derived from sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) processing
Function
Properties
Regulatory Status
CIR 2018 concluded safe at up to 8.7% (rinse-off). Oral LD50 rat >11,179 mg/kg (OECD 401). Dermal absorption ~0.1% (OECD 428). NOAEL >5,771 mg/kg/day (104-week rat). Negative genotoxicity (Ames, chromosome aberration, micronucleus). Non-irritating; anti-irritant at 4-5% (reduces SLS-induced erythema). No SCCS restrictions. CosIng Ref 74520. GRAS (FDA, FEMA 4223). MoS estimated >230,000. COSMOS/ECOCERT approved.
FDA GRAS as flavoring agent (FEMA 4223). No concentration limits for cosmetic use. FDA VCRP reports 459 product uses, primarily leave-on skin care. FDA-approved drug form (betaine hydrochloride) for homocystinuria treatment.
Ratings
Identifiers
No registry identifiers available for this ingredient.