Magnesium stearate, also referred to as octadecanoic acid, is a salt containing magnesium cation and stearic acid. It has lubricating properties that prevent ingredients from sticking together. It is used to bind sugar in hard candies and is a common ingredient in baby formulas and a major component in bathtub rings or soap scum. It is considered safe for human consumption. The few dangers associated with using magnesium stearate include dust explosion, fire hazard and physical exposure risks.
Dust Explosion
Magnesium stearate has a potential dust explosion hazard. This causes a large concentration of fine dust dispersion in air, according to Mallinckrodt Baker Chemicals. Magnesium stearate dust explosion can happen in the presence of an ignition source. Magnesium stearate should be kept in a closed container and stored in cool to low-heat conditions, from 36 to 104 degrees F. All ignition sources should be kept away from the sealed magnesium stearate. Only empty the container in an inert or nonflammable atmosphere. Otherwise, an explosion due to electrostatic discharge could happen.
Fire Hazard
Magnesium stearate is easily ignited and burns with an intense white flame, according to the National Library of Medicine's Toxicology Data Network, TOXNET. Heating magnesium can cause it to ignite. Proper storage and handling is important to reduce the possibility of combustion. If magnesium stearate does ignite, do not use water to extinguish; instead, use graphite, soda ash, powdered sodium chloride or suitable dry powders, according to TOXNET. If the fire is uncontrollable, evacuate the area.
Exposure Risks
Prolonged inhalation of magnesium stearate can cause coughing and difficulty breathing. Mucous membranes can be irritated by fine particles of magnesium. Deaths have been reported from accidental inhalation of baby dusting powders containing magnesium stearate, according to TOXNET. Magnesium stearate can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, according to the International Programme on Chemical Safety, INCHEM.
Magnesium stearate can cause skin irritation on contact. It is also an eye irritant, according to Science Lab's Material Safety Data Sheet. In case of eye contact, remove contacts, if necessary, and flush eyes with clean water for 15 minutes. In case of skin contact, wash with soap and water. Cover the area with an emollient or moisturizer. Get medical attention if irritation develops. Prolonged contact with magnesium stearate can cause target organ damage and may be toxic to the liver and skin, according to Science Lab.
References
- MallChem: Magnesium Stearate
- National Library of Medicine: TOXNET: Toxicology Data Network
- Science Lab: Material Safety Data Sheet: Magnesium Stearate MSDS
- National Library of Medicine: TOXNET: Toxicology Data Network: Magnesium Stearate
- International Programme on Chemical Safety: INCHEM: Magnesium Stearate
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