Retinal
all-E-Retinal, All-trans-Retinal, ALL-TRANS-RETINAL, all-trans-Retinaldehyde
- CAS
- 116-31-4
- EC
- 204-135-8
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Nutraceuticals & Supplements, Food & Nutrition
Retinal (CAS 116-31-4), also known as all-trans-retinaldehyde, is the aldehyde form of Vitamin A and the biologically active aldehyde intermediate in the Vitamin A pathway, supplied as a yellow cosmetic-grade powder for personal care, nutraceutical, and food and nutrition uses. Density approximately 1.008 g/cm³, melting point 63 °C, water solubility below 70 mg/L at 25 °C. Retinal is the biologically active aldehyde intermediate in the Vitamin A pathway, functioning as the chromophore in retinal photoreceptors and as a precursor in retinoid metabolism.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C20H28O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 284.44 g/mol |
| Appearance | Yellow Powder |
| Form | powder |
| Color | yellow |
| Melting point | 63 °C |
| Water solubility | <70mg/L(25 °C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29122990 |
| Grades available | Cosmetic Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Retinal
Applications
- Personal Care & Cosmetics: used as retinoid active in topical formulations.
- Food & Nutrition: supports vision, immune function, and cell specialisation claims.
- Nutraceuticals & Supplements: Vitamin A source; excluded from Annex II Directive 2002/46/EC.
- Biochemical & Research: reference standard in retinoid pathway and photoreceptor studies.
- Animal Feed: Vitamin A-active ingredient in premix and compound feed.
Safety & Risks
GHS Danger: H302 (harmful if swallowed), H315 (skin irritation), H360 (may damage fertility or the unborn child), H413 (harmful to aquatic life, long-lasting). Wear gloves, eye protection, and appropriate respiratory protection. Avoid release to the environment. Store away from light, heat, and moisture.
Packaging
Supplied in 25 kg drums or cartons; 1–5 kg small-lot options available. Store sealed in cool, dry, dark conditions.