5-aminolevulinic acid

When sourcing 5-aminolevulinic Acid, the purity level is the most critical factor, typically requiring ≥98% for industrial or agricultural use and ≥99% for pharmaceutical or laboratory research. Buyers must verify the CAS number (5451-03-6 for the Hydrochloride form) to ensure chemical consistency. Additionally, check for heavy metal content (<10ppm) and loss on drying (<0.5%) to ensure the stability and activity of the compound.

5-ALA is a versatile precursor used in multiple fields. In agriculture, it acts as a plant growth regulator to enhance chlorophyll synthesis and salt tolerance. In medicine, it is a key agent in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for skin treatments and cancer diagnosis. In cosmetics, it is utilized for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation. Buyers must specify their intended application to ensure the supplier provides the correct grade (Technical, Food, or Pharma grade).

Reliable suppliers should provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every batch. For international trade, look for ISO 9001 quality management certification. If the product is intended for health-related applications, verify if the manufacturer follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards. For agricultural exports, ensure the product meets the pesticide/fertilizer registration requirements of the destination country.

5-ALA is highly sensitive to light and heat. It must be stored in light-resistant, airtight containers at temperatures typically between 2°C to 8°C (refrigerated) for long-term stability. During cross-border transit, ensure the supplier uses insulated packaging or cold-chain logistics if necessary, as exposure to high temperatures can lead to degradation and loss of bioactivity.

Always request a pre-shipment sample for third-party laboratory testing (such as HPLC analysis). Use Made-in-China.com's audited supplier reports to verify the manufacturer's production capacity and history. Insist on a contract clause that stipulates the purity level and defines the refund process if the third-party inspection fails upon arrival.

5-ALA is generally classified under HS Code 292249. You must ensure the supplier provides a complete Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and a Non-Hazardous Chemical Declaration (if applicable) to avoid customs delays. For bulk liquid or powder, verify the UN packaging standards to prevent leakage during sea or air freight.

The price of 5-ALA is highly dependent on purity and synthesis method (biological fermentation vs. chemical synthesis). For bulk orders exceeding 10kg, you can typically negotiate a 10-20% discount. If you are a first-time buyer, look for suppliers on Made-in-China.com who offer flexible MOQs (e.g., 100g to 1kg) to facilitate initial product testing before committing to large-scale procurement.

Utilize secure payment terms such as Letter of Credit (L/C) or Escrow services provided by reputable B2B platforms. Avoid direct wire transfers to unverified accounts. Ensure all technical specifications and packaging requirements are explicitly listed in the Proforma Invoice (PI) to provide legal recourse in case of a trade dispute.