Description
What Is Mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride?
Chitosan Hydrochloride (Mushroom), also known as Chitosan HCl or water-soluble chitosan, is produced by reacting fungal-derived chitosan with hydrochloric acid. This protonation of the amino groups (–NH₂ → –NH₃⁺) converts insoluble native chitosan into a fully water-soluble salt one of the most versatile chitosan derivatives available for commercial and research applications.
CAS Number: 70694-72-3
INCI Name: Chitosan HCl (as used in cosmetic formulations)
Source: Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) 100% fungal chitin, non-shellfish
Unlike conventional shellfish chitosan that requires acetic acid or acidic pH for dissolution, mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride dissolves directly in water at neutral pH making it immediately compatible with aqueous pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and agricultural systems.
This is the foundational advantage that makes Chitosan HCl the preferred form for professional formulators across multiple regulated industries.
Learn about the broader chitosan hydrochloride product family or explore vegetal/mushroom origin chitosan for sourcing background.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Chitosan Hydrochloride (CHCl) |
| CAS Number | 70694-72-3 |
| Source | Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) — Fungal Chitin |
| INCI Name | Chitosan HCl |
| Appearance | Off-white to light cream powder |
| Odor | Mild, characteristic |
| Degree of Deacetylation (DDA) | ≥ 85% |
| Molecular Weight | Low to Medium (5–200 kDa, see note) |
| Solubility | Fully water-soluble at neutral pH |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 3.5–6.0 |
| Viscosity (1% solution) | 20–200 cps (grade dependent) |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 10% |
| Total Ash | ≤ 2% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 5 ppm |
| Mesh Size | 100% pass 80 mesh |
| Allergen Status | Shellfish-free, allergen-free |
| Vegan Status | Fully vegan plant/fungal origin |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from manufacturing date |
| Storage | Cool, dry, away from light and moisture |
| Facility | FDA-registered food facility |
| Documentation | Batch-specific COA available |
Note on Molecular Weight: Low MW (5–50 kDa) is preferred for cosmetic serums, supplement capsules, and foliar sprays. Medium MW (50–200 kDa) is suited for film-forming cosmetics, wound care, and encapsulation. Contact us to specify the MW range for your application.
Why Choose Mushroom-Derived Chitosan Hydrochloride?
Mushroom chitosan starts with a fundamental advantage: fungal chitin has a naturally lower degree of acetylation than shellfish chitin, meaning less chemical processing is required to reach high DDA resulting in a purer, more bioactive final product.
Key advantages over shellfish-derived Chitosan HCl:
Allergen-Free Formulation Eligibility
No shellfish proteins. No cross-contamination risk. Fully suitable for allergen-sensitive consumer markets, EU food regulations, and clean-label cosmetic certifications. A requirement for any brand targeting vegan, Kosher, Halal, or allergy-conscious formulations.
Superior Batch-to-Batch Consistency
Oyster mushrooms are cultivated in controlled indoor environments on consistent substrate unlike marine shellfish sourced from variable ocean harvests. This translates directly to consistent DDA, molecular weight, and viscosity across every production batch.
Neutral-pH Water Solubility
Mushroom Chitosan HCl dissolves cleanly in water without any acid addition. This enables direct integration into aqueous formulation systems including neutral-pH cosmetic emulsions, pharmaceutical solutions, and food beverages where acid-adjusted chitosan would alter product stability.
Sustainable & Circular Sourcing
Oyster mushroom cultivation requires no ocean extraction, no heavy metal accumulation risk, and produces no marine byproduct waste. Increasingly required for ESG-aligned procurement and sustainability-certified products.
Applications by Industry
Pharmaceutical & Biomedical
Mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride is one of the most clinically studied water-soluble chitosan derivatives. Its cationic charge (positive at physiological pH), mucoadhesive properties, and biocompatibility make it a preferred excipient across multiple pharmaceutical delivery routes.
Drug Delivery Systems
Chitosan HCl forms ionic complexes with negatively charged drug molecules and nucleic acids enabling construction of nanoparticle drug carriers, microencapsulation systems, and controlled-release matrices. Its positive surface charge promotes cellular uptake and extended residence time at mucosal surfaces. Explore chitosan for drug delivery systems.
Nanoparticle Formulation
Chitosan HCl is the preferred form for ionic gelation nanoparticle assembly using tripolyphosphate (TPP). The resulting nanoparticles are used for oral drug delivery, nasal vaccine delivery, ocular therapy, and gene transfection. See chitosan hydrochloride for nanoparticles.
Transdermal & Topical Delivery
When incorporated into hydrogels, patches, and creams, Chitosan HCl creates bioadhesive films that enhance penetration of active pharmaceutical ingredients through the skin barrier. Its compatibility with chitosan-based hydrogels supports controlled transdermal release systems. See carboxymethyl chitosan for hydrogels for related formulation options.
Hemostatic Applications
The cationic charge of Chitosan HCl enables rapid electrostatic interaction with negatively charged red blood cells and platelets accelerating clot formation in wound care dressings and hemostatic bandages. This property is clinically documented and widely used in advanced wound management materials.
Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery
Chitosan HCl’s positive charge binds strongly to negatively charged mucin glycoproteins lining the GI tract, nasal cavity, and ocular surface extending drug residence time and improving bioavailability for oral, nasal, and ocular pharmaceutical applications. Learn more: trimethyl chitosan for oral delivery.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride is the clean-label active of choice for premium skincare, haircare, and personal care brands targeting vegan and allergen-free claims.
Mechanism of Action on Skin: The positively charged Chitosan HCl molecule binds electrostatically to the negatively charged surface of skin and hair forming a thin, breathable, non-occlusive film that locks in moisture, delivers actives, and provides antimicrobial barrier protection. This substantivity (binding) effect is superior to most synthetic film-formers.
Skincare Applications
- Anti-aging serums: reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), plumps fine lines, supports collagen matrix
- Moisturizing creams: humidity-responsive moisture reservoir for skin hydration
- Wound-healing formulations: supports tissue regeneration and bacterial inhibition
- Sunscreen systems: film-forming co-ingredient that improves SPF even distribution
Haircare Applications
- Shampoos and conditioners: substantive film on hair cuticle reduces breakage, frizz, and static
- Scalp treatments: antimicrobial activity against dandruff-causing Malassezia yeast
- Hair masks: controlled delivery of conditioning actives
See full application guidance: chitosan for skin care | chitosan in cosmetics | chitosan shampoo | natural polymer in cosmetics.
Food, Nutraceutical & Dietary Supplements
Mushroom Chitosan HCl is GRAS-compatible and suitable for use in clean-label food and supplement formulations where shellfish allergen restrictions apply.
Dietary Supplement Applications
- Fat-binding & weight management: Chitosan HCl’s cationic charge binds dietary fats in the GI tract, reducing absorption the mechanism behind its use in weight management supplements
- Gut health: Prebiotic-like fiber activity supports beneficial gut microbiome; improves intestinal barrier integrity
- Cholesterol support: Binds bile acids in the intestine, facilitating their excretion and reducing LDL recirculation
- Detox formulas: Binds negatively charged toxins and heavy metal ions in the digestive tract
Food Industry Applications
- Natural antimicrobial preservative in beverages and functional foods
- Beverage clarification agent (flocculant at low concentrations)
- Encapsulation matrix for probiotic and enzyme delivery in functional foods
- Clean-label fat replacer component
See: chitosan food preservative | chitosan in food industry | chitosan for beverage clarification.
Agriculture & Crop Protection
Mushroom Chitosan HCl’s full water solubility makes it the superior choice for liquid agricultural formulations eliminating the acidification step required with native chitosan.
Key Agricultural Uses:
- Foliar spray biostimulant: Triggers systemic acquired resistance (SAR) in plants, activating natural defense pathways against fungal and bacterial pathogens
- Seed treatment: Coat seeds pre-germination to improve emergence rate, root development, and early disease resistance
- Soil amendment: Stimulates beneficial soil microbiome activity; improves nutrient uptake efficiency
- Post-harvest protection: Applied as an aqueous coating on harvested produce inhibits mold and bacterial spoilage during storage and transit
Application concentration guidance:
- Foliar spray: 0.01–0.1% CHCl solution
- Seed soak/coating: 0.05–0.5% solution
- Post-harvest dip: 0.5–2.0% solution
Full guidance: chitosan in agriculture | plant defense and crop protection | seed coating | oligosaccharide for plant growth.
Water Treatment & Industrial
Mushroom Chitosan HCl functions as a cationic flocculant and chelating agent in environmental and industrial water treatment applications.
- Flocculation of suspended particles and colloids in wastewater
- Heavy metal removal through chelation of metal ions (Pb, Cu, Cd, Hg)
- Dye removal from textile effluent via electrostatic adsorption
- Antimicrobial surface coatings for filtration membranes
See: chitosan for water treatment | natural coagulant for wastewater treatment.
How to Use Chitosan Hydrochloride (Formulator’s Guide)
Dissolution: Disperse Chitosan HCl powder into room-temperature water while stirring. Full dissolution typically occurs within 5–15 minutes. No acid is required. For concentrations above 2%, gentle warming (40–50°C) accelerates dissolution.
Recommended Working Concentrations:
| Application | Concentration |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic serum (film-former) | 0.5–2.0% w/w |
| Pharmaceutical tablet coating | 1.0–5.0% w/v |
| Drug delivery nanoparticles (TPP method) | 0.1–0.5% w/v |
| Agricultural foliar spray | 0.01–0.1% w/v |
| Food preservation coating | 0.5–2.0% w/v |
| Wound dressing hydrogel | 1.0–3.0% w/v |
Compatibility Notes:
- Compatible with anionic polymers (alginate, carrageenan, CMC) to form polyelectrolyte complexes
- Compatible with TPP (tripolyphosphate) for nanoparticle formation
- Avoid high-pH environments (>7.5) which may reduce solubility
- Stable in solution for up to 6 months when stored sealed at room temperature
Mushroom vs Shellfish Chitosan Hydrochloride
| Feature | Mushroom CHCl (This Product) | Shellfish CHCl |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Oyster Mushroom (fungal chitin) | Shrimp/Crab shells (marine chitin) |
| CAS Number | 70694-72-3 | 70694-72-3 |
| Allergen Status | Shellfish-free | Shellfish-derived |
| Vegan Certified | Yes | No |
| DDA Range | ≥ 85% | ≥ 90% (often higher) |
| Batch Consistency | Ultra-high (controlled cultivation) | Variable (wild-catch dependent) |
| Heavy Metal Risk | Very low (no ocean contamination) | Moderate (marine sourcing) |
| Clean-Label Eligible | Yes | Limited (shellfish labeling required) |
| Best For | Cosmetics, vegan supplements, clean-label food, pharma | Standard pharma, industrial applications |
| Price Point | Premium | More affordable |
→ Compare all chitosan origins → Buy Chitosan HCl – Shellfish → Buy Chitosan HCl – Soldier Fly
Molecular Weight Selection Guide
Choosing the right molecular weight (MW) Chitosan HCl is critical for application performance:
| MW Range | Best Application |
|---|---|
| Low MW (5–50 kDa) | Dietary supplements, foliar sprays, cosmetic serums, nanoparticle formation, transdermal penetration enhancers |
| Medium MW (50–200 kDa) | Film-forming cosmetics, wound dressings, drug delivery matrices, food coatings |
| High MW (200–500 kDa) | Hydrogels, tissue scaffolds, heavy-duty film coatings |
Not sure which MW is right for your application? Call Steve: +1 423-202-6145
Pricing & MOQ
| Quantity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 25 g Sample | $67.00 (Free Shipping) |
| 1 kg | $137.00 + 15% tariff + $60 FedEx |
| 100 kg – 500 kg | Contact for bulk pricing |
| 500 kg – 1 ton | Contact for bulk pricing |
Payment: 100% in advance. Lead time: 2–12 weeks for bulk. FDA-registered facility. COA included with every shipment.
Related Products
Explore the full Chitosan Hydrochloride family and related derivatives:
Chitosan Hydrochloride — Other Origins
Related Mushroom-Derived Products
- Carboxymethyl Chitosan – Mushroom (CMCS)
- Chitosan Oligosaccharide – Mushroom (COS)
- Native Mushroom Chitosan
- Trimethyl Chitosan – Mushroom
- Quaternary Chitosan – Shellfish
Learn More
- About Chitosan Hydrochloride
- About Vegetal / Mushroom Origin
- Low Molecular Weight Chitosan
- Water-Soluble Chitosan Supplier
- Browse full product shop
Why Chitosan Global
Chitosan Global is a division of Shield Nutraceuticals, Inc. over a decade of biopolymer and nutraceutical sourcing experience.
FDA-Registered Manufacturing Facility All chitosan products are manufactured in a Registered FDA Food Facility. This is non-negotiable for pharmaceutical and food ingredient buyers.
Batch-Specific Certificate of Analysis Every order ships with a COA documenting: DDA, molecular weight, moisture, ash, heavy metals, microbial limits, and pH.
Direct Technical Support Steve Nice is available by phone and email for formulation consultation, MW selection, and custom specification requests. This is expert-to-expert support not a call center.
Responsible Supply Chain Read our responsible supply chain commitments and ESG strategy.
FAQ
What is Chitosan Hydrochloride Mushroom and how is it made?
Chitosan Hydrochloride (Mushroom) is a water-soluble chitosan salt produced by reacting fungal chitosan extracted from oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) cell walls with hydrochloric acid. This protonation converts insoluble native chitosan into a fully water-soluble form, registered under CAS No. 70694-72-3.
Is mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride vegan?
Yes. It is derived entirely from fungal (mushroom) chitin no shellfish, crustaceans, or animal byproducts. It is suitable for vegan, vegetarian, Kosher, and Halal-certified formulations.
What is the difference between Chitosan Hydrochloride and regular chitosan?
Native chitosan is insoluble in water and requires acetic acid or dilute hydrochloric acid for dissolution. Chitosan Hydrochloride is a pre-formed salt that dissolves directly in water at neutral pH making it far easier to integrate into aqueous formulations for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, and agriculture without altering the final product’s pH.
What industries use mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride?
Pharmaceutical (drug delivery, nanoparticles, wound care, hemostatics), cosmetics (moisturizers, anti-aging serums, shampoos), food/nutraceuticals (gut health, fat binding, weight management), agriculture (foliar sprays, seed treatments), and water treatment (flocculation, heavy metal chelation).
What molecular weight should I choose for my application?
Low MW (5–50 kDa) is best for dietary supplements, cosmetic serums, foliar sprays, and nanoparticle formation. Medium MW (50–200 kDa) suits film-forming cosmetics, wound care, and food coatings. Contact steve@chitosanglobal.com for MW-specific guidance for your formulation.
Does Chitosan Hydrochloride require acid for dissolution?
No. Mushroom Chitosan Hydrochloride dissolves directly in room-temperature water within 5–15 minutes with gentle stirring. No acid addition is needed, making it significantly easier to work with than native chitosan powder.
What is the CAS number for Chitosan Hydrochloride?
CAS No. 70694-72-3. It is also known as Chitosan HCl, Water-Soluble Chitosan, or Chitosan Salt (HCl form). The INCI name for cosmetic use is Chitosan HCl.
Is a Certificate of Analysis (COA) available?
Yes. Every shipment includes a batch-specific COA specifying DDA, molecular weight, moisture, ash, heavy metals, viscosity, and microbial limits. Manufacturing is conducted in an FDA-registered food facility.
What is the minimum order quantity?
A 25 g sample is available for $67.00 with free shipping ideal for R&D and formulation testing. Bulk orders start at 1 kg. Industrial-scale volume pricing available from 100 kg. Contact steve@chitosanglobal.com.
How does mushroom Chitosan HCl compare to shellfish-derived Chitosan HCl?
Both share the same CAS number and core chemistry. The key difference is allergen status and batch consistency. Mushroom CHCl is shellfish-free (no allergen labeling required), vegan-certified, and produced from controlled-environment cultivation resulting in superior batch-to-batch consistency compared to variable marine-sourced material. Mushroom CHCl commands a slight price premium and is preferred for clean-label, vegan, and allergen-sensitive applications.
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