Description
The third branched-chain amino acid alongside L-Leucine and L-Valine. Essential for muscle protein synthesis and glucose-uptake signaling. Almost always sold as part of the standard 2:1:1 BCAA blend rather than as a standalone supplement.
White crystalline powder. Slightly water-soluble.
We supply food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade L-Isoleucine from manufacturers in China holding ISO, Halal, Kosher and other certifications relevant to the product and production.
Common market grades include Standard Food Grade (FCC compliant), Pharmaceutical Grade meeting BP/USP/EP/JP specifications, Instant Isoleucine (modified for cold-water dispersion), and pre-blended BCAA Systems at the standard 2:1:1 ratio.
Bulk and reduced-MOQ shipments. Batch-level COA covering assay, specific rotation, related amino acids, heavy metals, and microbiology.
Introduction
L-Isoleucine is the third branched-chain amino acid (BCAA). The amino acid has a distinctive isomerization-derived structure (the name 'isoleucine' reflects its isomer relationship to leucine) with two chiral centers, of which only the natural 2S,3S configuration is biologically active.
Industrial production proceeds by submerged aerobic fermentation using engineered Corynebacterium glutamicum or Escherichia coli strains.
Recognized as a permitted food ingredient by the U.S. FDA, the European Food Safety Authority, and equivalent regulators worldwide. Listed in BP, USP, EP, and JP pharmacopoeias.
Of the three BCAAs, isoleucine has received the least standalone supplement attention, but emerging research on its role in glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity has driven some interest in specific clinical-nutrition applications. The dominant commercial use remains as part of standard 2:1:1 BCAA blends.
Strategic positioning serves the BCAA-blend sports nutrition segment as a stable component, alongside pharmaceutical and clinical-nutrition applications.
Where it is used
- Sports nutrition: BCAA blends, intra-workout powders, and recovery formulations
- Pharmaceutical applications: parenteral nutrition formulas
- Clinical nutrition: catabolic-state recovery and surgical nutrition
- Dietary supplements: amino-acid and muscle-support formulations
- Infant formula fortification
- Pet food protein-balancing applications
- Animal feed: aquaculture and specialty applications
Technical data
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Assay (dry basis) | 98.5% to 101.0% |
| Specific rotation | +39.5° to +41.5° |
| Loss on drying | ≤ 0.3% |
| Residue on ignition | ≤ 0.1% |
| Heavy metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 mg/kg |
| Chloride | ≤ 0.05% |
| Particle size | Per customer specification |
Ready to discuss business?
Send us your spec and requirement. We will respond with availability and pricing within 24 hours.