Bovine Cholesterol

Updated: 2026-09-11

Overview

Bovine Cholesterol is a sterol lipid extracted from cattle tissues, primarily the brain and spinal cord. It is a vital structural component of animal cell membranes and serves as a precursor for bile acids, vitamin D, and steroid hormones. Industrially, it is purified for use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and research. In B2B markets, Bovine Cholesterol is traded as a high-purity chemical raw material. Suppliers typically offer it in powdered or crystalline form, with purity levels ranging from 90% to 99%. Its sourcing and processing must comply with regulatory standards, especially for applications in human health products.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Bovine Cholesterol is characterized by its insolubility in water but high solubility in nonpolar organic solvents like chloroform and ether. It has a distinct crystalline structure and melts at around 148-150°C. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions but may oxidize when exposed to air or light over extended periods. Its molecular structure includes a hydroxyl group (-OH) at the 3-position of the steroid nucleus, making it amphiphilic. This property allows it to interact with both lipids and aqueous environments, which is critical for its biological functions in membrane fluidity regulation.

Main Applications

In pharmaceuticals, Bovine Cholesterol is used as an excipient in liposomal drug delivery systems and hormone synthesis. It improves the stability and bioavailability of lipid-based formulations. The cosmetic industry incorporates it into creams and lotions for its emollient and skin-barrier-enhancing properties. Research laboratories utilize Bovine Cholesterol as a standard in biochemical assays and cell culture media. In food supplements, it is sometimes added to animal feed or specialized dietary products, though this application is closely regulated due to health considerations.

Safety and Storage

While Bovine Cholesterol is not classified as highly hazardous, proper handling is essential to avoid contamination. Use gloves and masks when handling the powder to prevent respiratory or dermal exposure. Storage should be in airtight containers under inert gas (e.g., nitrogen) to prevent oxidation. Bulk quantities are typically shipped in sealed aluminum bags or drums with desiccants. Shelf life is approximately 2-3 years when stored below 25°C. Discard if discoloration or odor develops, as these may indicate degradation.

B2B Procurement Guide

When sourcing Bovine Cholesterol, prioritize suppliers with ISO 9001 or GMP certifications to ensure quality consistency. Request certificates of analysis (CoA) detailing purity, residual solvents, and microbial limits. For pharmaceutical-grade material, USP/EP compliance is mandatory. Negotiate pricing based on volume, with discounts commonly available for orders exceeding 100 kg. Lead times vary but average 2-4 weeks for custom purification. Consider regional suppliers to reduce logistics costs, but verify their adherence to international standards like ICH Q7.