"Cure for Nerves" This is how many consumers will answer the question about glycine. The amino acid is known for its ability to reduce emotional stress, improve memory, and restore brain function after serious illnesses.
In its natural form, it is found in walnuts and pine nuts, bananas, apricots, peanuts, beef liver, quail eggs, gelatin.
In the food industry, glycine is registered as a food additive that enhances the aroma and taste of products.
Dye Blue brilliant (E133) is a completely unhealthy substance for human health. What harm it can do, you will read.
Main manufacturers
Domestic pharmaceutical companies producing glycine preparations (for example, MNPK Biotiki, Moscow) work on imported raw materials.
Additive E 640 is produced by companies: 
- Abcr GmbH (Germany);
- RENNTAG GmbH (Germany);
- Shenzhen Shijingu Technology Co., Ltd. (China).
Useful information! Aminoacetic acid easily penetrates into the cells of the body. Useful quality can be used in home skin care. If powdered glycine tablets are added to a nourishing or moisturizing mask for skin or hair, biologically valuable components can get into the deeper layers of the dermis. This will help you achieve the desired result faster.
Name Glycine sodium salt Synonyms sodium aminoacetate; sodium aminoacetic acid; glycocol sodium salt; aminoacetic acid sodium salt; Registration number CAS 6000-44-8 Molecular formula C 2 H 4 NNaO 2 Molecular weight 97.04887 InChI InChI=1S/C2H5NO2.Na/c3-1-2(4)5-/h1,3H2,(H,4,5) -/q-+1/p-1 InChIKey WUWHFEHKUQVYLF-UHFFFAOYSA-M SMILES .C(=O)CN EINECS 227-842-3
Chemical and physical properties
Density 1.014 g/cm3 Boiling point 240.9°C at 760 mmHg Art. Melting point 290°C decomposes Flash point 99.5°C Refractive index 1.491 Solubility Soluble in ethanol, diethyl ether. Slightly soluble in acetone. It dissolves well in water. Solubility in 100 ml of water at 25°C: 25.0 g, at 50°C: 39.1 g, at 75°C: 54.4 g, at 100°C: 67.2 g. Soluble in 164 parts of pyridine . Almost insoluble in ether. Solubility in water = 2.49X10 + 5 mg/l at 25°C. Appearance White or off-white crystalline powder.
Classification of chemical reagents
Pure ("pure") Glycine sodium salt Ch. The content of the main component is 98% and higher (without impurities). The color of the strip on the package is green. Pure for analysis ("analytical grade", "analytical grade") Glycine sodium salt of analytical grade. The content of the main component is higher or significantly higher than 98%. Impurities do not exceed the allowable limit for accurate analytical studies. The color of the strip on the package is blue. Chemically pure ("chemically pure", "chemically pure") Glycine sodium salt of chemically pure. The content of the main component is more than 99%. The color of the strip on the packaging is red. Extra pure ("high purity") Glycine sodium salt of high purity. The content of impurities in such a small amount that they do not affect the basic properties. The color of the strip on the packaging is yellow.
Which performs important biological functions in living organisms, is involved in protein biosynthesis, is responsible for the normal activity of the nervous system and regulates metabolic processes. Artificially derived aminoacetic acid is used in pharmaceuticals, medicine and the food industry.
Food additive E640 combines under one marking number aminoacetic acid (glycine) and its sodium salt - compounds that are used to optimize the taste and aroma of products. The supplement is safe and officially approved in most countries of the world.
Glycine and its sodium salt: general information
Glycine, also known as aminoacetic or aminoethanoic acid, belongs to a number of non-essential amino acids - the simplest organic structures that are part of proteins and their compounds. The substance obtained artificially is a colorless powder, odorless and has a sweetish taste.
On an industrial scale, glycine is produced by combining chloroacetic acid and ammonia. Aminoacetic acid, in turn, has the ability to form complex salts (glycinates) with metal ions.
Sodium glycinate is a salt of sodium and aminoacetic acid, which is also a substance of synthetic origin. Despite the fact that glycine and its salt are different chemical compounds, in the food industry they perform identical functions of flavor and aroma modifiers, are combined under one marking number and are considered as an E640 additive.
| Name | Glycine (Glycine) |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Aminoacetic (aminoethanoic) acid, glycocol (obsolete) |
| Group | Non-essential amino acids |
| Chemical formula | NH 2 - CH 2 - COOH |
| Structure | Fine monoclinic crystals (crystalline powder) |
| Color | White (colorless) |
| Smell | Missing |
| Taste | Sweet |
| Solubility | Completely soluble in, partially - in. Does not dissolve in ether |
| Additive code | E640 (including sodium salt) |
| Origin | Synthetic |
| Toxicity | Safe when taken within limits |
| Areas of use | Food industry, pharmaceuticals, medicine, cosmetology |
The biological role of glycine and its sources
Glycine is found in the composition of protein molecules much more often than other amino acids and performs the most important biological functions. In the human body, this amino acid is synthesized by transamination (reversible transfer of the amino group) of glyoxylate or enzymatic cleavage of choline and serine.
Aminoacetic acid is a precursor of porphyrins and purines, the biosynthesis of which occurs in living cells, but the biological role of this compound is not limited to these functions. Glycine is also a neurotransmitter that is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses, regulates the production of other amino acids, and has an "inhibitory" effect on neurons and motor neurons.
The body of a healthy person independently synthesizes amino acids in the required quantities, so there is usually no need for their use as part of medicines and dietary supplements. Food sources of aminoacetic acid are animal products (beef liver and), nuts and some fruits.
The effect of glycine and its sodium salt on the human body
Aminoacetic acid as a neurotransmitter performs regulatory functions and primarily affects the central and peripheral nervous system. Glycine has nootropic properties, normalizes metabolism, activates the protective functions of the central nervous system and has a mild calming effect.
The positive effect of glycine on the human body:
- reduction of emotional tension, anxiety, stress, aggressiveness;
- improvement of mood and normalization of sleep;
- relaxation of muscles and removal of spasms;
- increase in working capacity;
- weakening the side effects of taking psychotropic drugs;
- decrease in the severity of vegetovascular disorders;
- reduced cravings for alcohol and sweets.
As part of the E640 supplement, glycine and its salt do not have the above properties and do not have either a positive or negative effect on the human body when consumed within the normal range. The food supplement does not pose a threat to health, but in case of individual intolerance, it can provoke an allergic reaction.
Potential hazards can be additives in the composition of the additive and low-quality food products, in the manufacture of which taste and aroma optimizers are used.
The use of glycine and its sodium salt
The areas of application of glycine and sodium glycinate are mainly limited to the food industry, medicine and pharmaceuticals. However, aminoacetic acid has also found use in the cosmetics industry due to its hypoallergenic and antioxidant properties.
Cosmetic products containing E640 additive:
- therapeutic shampoos for weakened hair and anti-baldness products;
- anti-aging cosmetics, moisturizing creams and masks for all skin types;
- cleansing serums and tonics;
- lipsticks and balms.
Crushed glycine tablets can be used to make homemade skin care products, add to moisturizing masks and creams. Aminoacetic acid promotes the penetration of valuable nutrients into the deep layers of the dermis and enhances the effect of medical cosmetics.
Additive E640 in the food industry
Glycine and sodium glycinate are actively used in technological processes for the manufacture of alcoholic beverages. Additive E640, in particular, is part of the elite vodka, which allows you to neutralize the unpleasant odor and soften the sharp taste. There is also an opinion that the presence of glycine in alcoholic beverages helps to reduce the toxic effect of alcohol on the nervous system and prevents hangovers.
Food products containing the E640 additive:
- strong alcoholic drinks;
- jams, preserves, jellies, ;
- packaged juices with pulp;
- enriched cooking;
- sports fortified drinks;
- sauces, seasonings and spices.
Aminoacetic acid is used not only to optimize the taste and transport of biologically active substances, but also as an antibacterial agent. In particular, meat, fish and seafood are processed with it to neutralize the dangerous Escherichia coli.
Medical use
Glycine is actively used for the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with the central and peripheral nervous system. This substance is part of pharmaceutical preparations of nootropic, sedative, anticonvulsant and hypnotic action, has a mild antidepressant and tranquilizing effect.
Medical indications for the use of aminoacetic acid as a drug:
- reduced mental performance, sleep and memory disorders;
- emotional stress, stressful situations, neuroses;
- emotional instability and increased excitability;
- consequences of ischemic stroke, craniocerebral injuries and neuroinfections;
- vegetovascular dystonia, ischemia;
- increased muscle tone, muscle cramps;
- alcohol and drug addiction, the toxic effect of drugs that depress the central nervous system.
It has been proven that the use of 3 g of glycine per day has a positive effect on mental abilities and the general emotional state of a person, relieves daytime drowsiness and normalizes night sleep. The drug is also prescribed for pregnant women to reduce anxiety, children and adolescents who have difficulty with social adaptation and concentration.
Additive E640 and legislation
Taste and odor optimizer E640 is used in food production in most countries of the world, but there is no information about the additive in the Codex Alimentarius. There have been no cases of poisoning with glycine and sodium glycinate when eaten, so the E640 modifier is considered safe.
The additive is included in the list of officially approved for use in the food industry in the EU, USA and Canada. The legislation of the Russian Federation and Belarus also allows the presence of E640 in products within the permissible limits established by SanPiN. There are no data on the use of E640 as a flavor enhancer and flavoring agent on the territory of Ukraine.
Despite the fact that glycine and its salt do not have a toxic effect on the human body and are approved for use, products containing E640 can hardly be called useful. Most flavors and flavorings are used to draw the attention of the consumer to low quality products, the use of which should be minimized.
The article describes a food additive (taste and aroma modifier) glycine (E640, aminoacetic acid, aminoethanoic acid, glycocol), its use, effects on the body, harm and benefits, composition, consumer reviews
Other additive names: glycine, glycine and its sodium salts, E640, E-640, E-640
Functions performed
flavor and aroma modifier
Legality of use
Ukraine EU Russia
Glycine, E640 - what is it?
Glycine (aminoacetic acid) is a naturally occurring amino acid found in many natural proteins, the synthetic form of which is used as food additive E640. The compound is also known as aminoethanoic acid, glycocol. Glycine is a crystal, highly soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol.
The substance performs significant biological functions for the human body; on an industrial scale for a long time was used as a developer in photography. Currently, it is a well-known medicine and a component of cosmetics.
Isolation of amino acids from natural proteins is a long and expensive process; it is not feasible to implement it on an industrial scale. Glycine is obtained by organic synthesis from acetic acid, then subjected to thorough purification. The sodium salt of aminoacetic acid has a high solubility, is obtained by neutralization, and is also used in food technology.
Glycine, E640 - effect on the body, harm or benefit?
E640 is a safe supplement inherent in the human body. Aminoacetic acid is involved in the overall protein metabolism, is well utilized, and is a precursor of compounds involved in the synthesis of nucleic acids. According to indications, glycine is prescribed as a drug for persons of all categories, including pregnant women. Aminoethanoic acid improves sleep, normalizes the emotional state of a person
Glycine actively nourishes nerve cells, thus stimulating the work of the brain and the whole organism as a whole. The sodium salt of aminoacetic acid dissolves in gastric juice to form glycine and some sodium ions. They are also well absorbed without causing negative effects.
Glycine, its sodium salt are part of cosmetics, acting as a stimulant of metabolic processes and a carrier of other active ingredients.
With excessive intake of E640 compounds, individual allergic reactions may occur, which in practice is extremely rare. Additive E640 is approved for use in many countries without a daily dose limit.
Food additive E640, aminoacetic acid - use in food
Glycine and its sodium salt enhance the taste and aroma of natural products. E640 is added to fruit juices, jams, vegetable purees, table salt with improved biological properties.
As a substance that inhibits the activity of Escherichia coli, the E640 additive is used in the production of meat and fish products. Glycine and its sodium salt are present in elite vodkas. It is added to neutralize the smell of fusel oils, improve taste, and reduce unpleasant hangovers among lovers of alcoholic beverages.
Glycine and its sodium salts- a food additive used as a flavor and aroma enhancer. Registered under the code E-640.
Refers to non-essential amino acids. According to modern data, it is the central neurotransmitter (transmitter of nervous excitation) of the inhibitory type of action. It has a calming effect on the central nervous system.
Numerous studies have been conducted to determine the harm E-640. According to the results, it was found that the additive is safe for human health. In this regard, its use is officially allowed not only in Russia and Ukraine, but also in most EU countries.
Application
In the field of food production, glycine is used as a flavor and odor modifier for certain types of beverages, most often alcoholic beverages.
It is widely used in medicine as a sedative drug that improves sleep.
Except food industry flavor enhancer properties E-640 glycine and its sodium salts are of great importance for peptide synthesis. So, when mixed with other amino acids, it is used for parenteral nutrition - when a person is not able to eat on his own, nutrients are introduced into the body by intravenous infusion, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.
Impact on the human body
The harm of a food flavor enhancer can only be felt in isolated cases, causing allergic reactions in sensitive people. In general, the benefits of this supplement outweigh the possible negative effects on the body. Glycine and its sodium salts play the role of a regulator of metabolic processes in the body.
Glycine is the main active ingredient in the soothing medication of the same name.
effect of glycine on the body
- activates protective inhibition of the central nervous system;
- reduces emotional and mental stress;
- has a positive effect on mental activity;
- improves mood;
- brings the rhythm of sleep back to normal;
- lowers the toxic and destructive effects of alcohol on the nervous system.
Physico-chemical properties of glycine
Externally, the substance is a small crystals or crystal-like powder. The food supplement has no color or smell. Melting point 232-236C. Physical Properties of Food Flavor Enhancer E-640 glycine and its sodium salts allow it to dissolve completely in water. However, it is practically insoluble in alcohol and ether.
In nature, glycine is found in all living organisms. In addition, this substance is included in the complex composition of protein molecules. The necessary compound is obtained on an industrial scale as a result of the interaction of chloroacetic acid with ammonia.
