Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone Powder(NHDC)

Product Name:Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone powder

Other Name:NHDC,neohesperidin DC, Neo-DHC

CAS NO.20702-77-6

Botanical Source:Citrus Aurantium L.

Specification:98% HPLC

Appearance: White powder

Origin: China

Benefits: Natural sweetener

GMO Status:GMO Free

Packing: in 25kgs fiber drums

Storage:Keep container unopened in cool, dry place,Keep away from strong light

Shelf Life:24 months from date of production

Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone (NHDC), also known as Neohesperidin DC, is a semi-synthetic, high-intensity sweetener derived from the flavonoid neohesperidin, which is naturally found in bitter oranges (Citrus aurantium). First synthesized in 1963, NHDC is approximately 1,500–1,800 times sweeter than sucrose at threshold levels, with a sweetness intensity of around 340 times that of sucrose by weight . Its unique properties make it a versatile additive in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed.

Chemical Properties
NHDC has the molecular formula C₂₈H₃₆O₁₅ and a molecular weight of 612.58 g/mol. It is a white to off-white, odorless powder with a melting point of 156–158°C. It is slightly hygroscopic and stable under various food processing conditions, including high temperatures and acidic or alkaline environments . NHDC is freely soluble in hot water but has very low solubility in cold water, which limits its use in cold beverages .

Applications
NHDC is widely used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer in a variety of food and beverage products. It is particularly effective in enhancing the sweetness of low-calorie or sugar-free formulations, such as:

• Juices and soft drinks
• Dairy products
• Candies and confectionery
• Frozen desserts and ice cream
• Condiments and sauces

In addition to its role as a sweetener, NHDC is used to mask bitter or unpleasant tastes in formulations. For example, it is commonly used in pharmaceuticals to reduce the bitterness of medications such as antacids, antibiotics, and vitamins. In the cosmetic industry, NHDC is incorporated into toothpaste and mouthwash to improve the sensory experience of the product. In the animal feed industry, it is used to enhance palatability and reduce feeding time for livestock .

Safety and Regulatory Status
NHDC is approved for use in several regions, including the European Communities, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and several African and Asian countries. In the European Union, it is designated as E 959 and is recognized as a non-nutritive sweetener and flavor enhancer. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) in the EU is 0–5 mg/kg body weight . Animal toxicity studies indicate that NHDC is non-toxic, non-teratogenic, and non-carcinogenic at the levels used in food and pharmaceutical applications .

Storage and Handling
NHDC should be stored in a dry, dark, and cool environment (0–4°C for short-term storage and -20°C for long-term storage) to maintain its stability and purity. It is recommended to avoid exposure to light and moisture to prevent degradation. When handling NHDC, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used, and spills should be cleaned up immediately to prevent inhalation or skin contact .

Conclusion
Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone is a highly effective and versatile sweetener with a wide range of applications across multiple industries. Its unique combination of high sweetness, stability, and flavor-enhancing properties makes it an ideal choice for use in low-calorie and functional food products. As a non-nutritive sweetener, NHDC is also beneficial for individuals with obesity or metabolic syndrome due to its zero-calorie profile and low glycemic index .

Table: Key Features of NHDC