PQQ Supplement Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt(PQQ) CAS 122628-50-6

Introduction：

Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium (PQQ) salt is a small aromatic molecule first isolated from fermented black 

vinegar in 1979. It occurs naturally in spinach, green tea, natto, and human milk. As a redox cofactor, PQQ differs from conventional antioxidants, which are used up after a single reaction, by cycling repeatedly between oxidized and reduced states, thereby supporting sustained cellular redox balance. It also participates in mitochondrial turnover pathways, helping cells maintain healthy energy production. The human body does not synthesize PQQ, and dietary intake from food alone falls far below the levels typically used in research. Recognized globally, PQQ is approved for use in foods, dietary supplements, cosmetics, and animal feed. Available as a high-purity, fermentation-derived ingredient, it suits a wide range of formulations from anti-aging serums to energy-support supplements.

Specification:

Application:

1. Dietary Supplements for Energy & Vitality

With the growing demand for nutritional products that support daily energy balance and cellular function, PQQ – as a naturally occurring redox cofactor involved in mitochondrial ATP synthesis – is widely incorporated into supplement formulations. It serves as a complementary ingredient to help maintain healthy energy metabolism and reduce perceived fatigue.

• Bulk powder: Suitable for large‑scale production of capsules, tablets, or powder blends, easily mixed with vitamins, minerals, and other active ingredients;

• Ready‑to‑fill capsules: Convenient for precise dosage control, allowing end users to incorporate PQQ into their daily routine;

• Gummies and chewables: Formulated with PQQ disodium salt for improved palatability and consumer compliance;

• Liquid drops or oral solutions: Utilized for fast absorption and flexible dosing, particularly in water‑based formulations.

2. Functional Foods & Beverages for Cognitive Support

As consumers pursue healthier food options that also support mental clarity, adding natural nutritional components has become a key trend in food processing. PQQ, with its good stability and compatibility, is used as a nutritional enhancer to enrich everyday foods and drinks.

• Ready‑to‑drink beverages: Added as a soluble ingredient (PQQ disodium salt) to functional waters, energy drinks, or juice‑based products without affecting clarity or flavor;

• Solid drink mixes: Formulated into single‑serve sachets for convenient reconstitution with water or milk;

• Dairy and plant‑based milk alternatives: Incorporated to complement the natural nutrient profile of milk, yogurt, or soy drinks;

• Bakery and snack bars: Blended into dough or fillings during processing, withstanding moderate heat conditions.

3. Cosmetics & Skincare for Antioxidant Protection

Modern cosmetics focus on both efficacy and mildness, with ingredients that support cellular resilience against environmental stress gaining increasing attention. PQQ’s redox activity and water solubility make it a suitable additive for skincare formulations.

• Anti‑aging serums: Formulated as a water‑soluble active ingredient (0.1–0.5%) to help protect skin cells from oxidative stress and support fibroblast function;

• Moisturizing creams and lotions: Acts as a barrier‑supporting component, helping reduce transepidermal water loss and maintain hydration;

• After‑sun gels and lotions: Used for its soothing properties, applied in post‑exposure products to calm stressed skin;

• Face masks and essences: Incorporated into sheet masks or concentrated ampoules for targeted application.

4. Sports Nutrition for Recovery & Endurance

With the rising interest in nutritional products that support physical performance and post‑exercise recovery, PQQ is used in sports nutrition formulations to aid energy metabolism and reduce exercise‑induced oxidative stress.

• Pre‑workout powders: Blended with amino acids and caffeine to support cellular energy production during high‑intensity training;

• Post‑recovery drinks: Combined with electrolytes and protein to assist muscle recovery and reduce perceived fatigue;

• Endurance gels and chews: Convenient format for athletes during prolonged activity, providing mitochondrial support without gastrointestinal burden;

• Effervescent tablets: Dissolved in water for rapid intake before or after exercise sessions.

5. Animal Nutrition & Feed Additives

Livestock and aquaculture producers are increasingly incorporating functional ingredients to support animal growth and vitality. PQQ, recognized as a safe feed additive in several regions, is added to animal diets to complement nutritional programs.

• Premixes for piglets and poultry: Blended with vitamins and minerals to support early development and antioxidant capacity;

• Aquafeed: Added to feed for fish and shrimp to improve stress resistance during intensive farming;

• Pet supplements: Formulated into chewable tablets or powder toppers for companion animals, supporting overall vitality;

• Liquid feed additives: Used in water‑based delivery systems for young animals or poultry.

Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between PQQ and PQQ disodium salt?

PQQ (free acid) and its disodium salt share the same core structure. The disodium salt form (CAS 122628-50-6) is more water soluble and commonly used in supplements and beverages. Both are ≥98% pure by HPLC.

Q2: What is the recommended daily intake?
China’s novel food regulation sets a maximum daily intake of 20 mg for PQQ disodium salt. Most human studies have used 10–20 mg/day.

Q3: Is PQQ safe? Any side effects?
Yes, PQQ has GRAS status in the US and novel food approvals globally. Animal studies show a NOAEL of 400 mg/kg/day. In human trials at 20–60 mg/day for up to 12 weeks, only mild, transient gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in a small percentage of users.

Q4: Who should avoid PQQ?
Infants, young children, pregnant and nursing women should avoid supplements due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with known quinone allergy should also refrain.

Q5: Can PQQ be combined with other ingredients?
Yes. Common synergistic pairings include:

PQQ + Coenzyme Q10 – mitochondrial quantity + efficiency

PQQ + NMN – NAD⁺ regeneration + mitochondrial biogenesis

PQQ + Spermidine – mitophagy + new mitochondria formation

PQQ + Vitamin C/E – expanded antioxidant network

PQQ + Hyaluronic acid – hydration + barrier support

PQQ + Niacinamide – calming + skin repair

Q6: How is GEMSEN’s PQQ produced?
It is produced via natural fermentation using non GMO, safe bacterial strains, followed by a proprietary low-temperature vacuum drying process . This yields high purity (≥98%), low water activity, low hygroscopicity, and excellent stability.

Q7: In which product categories can PQQ be used?
In China, PQQ disodium salt is approved for general food (beverages, solid drinks) and dietary supplements (oral liquids, tablets, capsules). For cross border e commerce, it can also be used in gummies, powders, and functional candies.

Q8: How does PQQ compare to CoQ10?

Both support mitochondrial health but through different mechanisms:

PQQ promotes the creation of new mitochondria (mitochondrial biogenesis).

CoQ10 helps existing mitochondria work more efficiently (electron transport chain).

They are often used together for complementary effects.

Q9: Which skin types can benefit from PQQ?

Based on the Baumann Skin Typing System:

Dry skin – Supports ceramide synthesis, reducing transepidermal water loss.

Sensitive skin – Reduces inflammatory pathways, offers soothing effects.

Wrinkle‑prone skin – Provides antioxidant and cell‑energizing support as part of an anti‑aging regimen.