What is Hard Fat?
Hard Fat, chemically identified by the CAS number 136626-73-8, is a purified mixture of triglycerides derived from saturated fatty acids, typically obtained from natural vegetable oils. It is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations, cosmetics, and food products due to its excellent consistency, stability, and biocompatibility.
Hard Fat is also known under trade names such as Witepsol, Suppocire, or Adeps solidus, and serves primarily as a lipid-based excipient or fatty base for suppositories, ointments, and topical formulations.
Chemical Information
Chemical Name: Hard Fat
CAS Number: 136626-73-8
Chemical Class: Mixture of saturated triglycerides
Source: Derived from hydrogenated vegetable oils or purified natural fats
Appearance: White or off-white solid, wax-like consistency
Melting Point: 33–36 °C (depending on composition)
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
Key Features and Properties
Excellent Thermal Stability: Maintains consistent melting and solidification behavior.
Neutral Odor and Taste: Ideal for pharmaceutical and food applications.
High Purity and Biocompatibility: Safe for topical and internal formulations.
Adjustable Melting Range: Enables formulation flexibility for various dosage forms.
Applications of Hard Fat
1. Pharmaceutical Industry
Hard Fat is a common excipient used as a base for suppositories and topical preparations.
Provides a smooth, stable texture.
Ensures controlled melting behavior at body temperature.
Offers good drug release characteristics.
Typical uses include:
Suppository base (rectal and vaginal formulations)
Topical creams and ointments
Encapsulation materials for fat-soluble drugs
2. Cosmetics and Personal Care
In cosmetics, Hard Fat functions as a structuring agent and emollient, enhancing product texture and skin feel.
Used in lipsticks, body lotions, balms, and moisturizers.
Provides a smooth, non-greasy consistency and long-lasting stability.
3. Food and Nutrition Industry
Hard Fat may also serve as a fat component in confectionery and food coatings, where oxidative stability and texture control are crucial.
Advantages in Formulation
Good chemical stability and reproducibility
Non-toxic and non-irritating
Compatible with a wide range of APIs and additives
Consistent performance during large-scale manufacturing
Quality and Specifications
Acid Value: < 0.5 mg KOH/g
Iodine Value: < 3
Peroxide Value: < 5
Complies with: Ph. Eur. / USP standards for pharmaceutical excipients
Global Market Overview
The demand for Hard Fat (CAS 136626-73-8) is growing steadily across pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors, especially in:
Suppository formulation manufacturing
Sustainable and plant-based excipient development
Natural cosmetic ingredient production
Major suppliers and manufacturers focus on providing GMP-certified, high-purity grades suitable for international markets.
Storage and Handling
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Protect from oxidation and contamination.
Recommended storage temperature: below 25 °C.
Conclusion
Hard Fat (CAS 136626-73-8) is an essential multifunctional ingredient widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. Its stability, safety, and excellent formulation properties make it a preferred choice as a suppository base, emollient, and structuring agent.
With the increasing global shift toward sustainable and natural excipients, Hard Fat continues to play a crucial role in high-quality formulation development.