CAS#: 13040-19-2
CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) numbers are unique identifiers assigned to every chemical substance, ensuring accurate identification across the industry.
What is it?
Zinc Ricinoleate is the zinc salt of ricinoleic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid derived from castor oil. This specialized ingredient is recognized as one of the most effective natural odor-absorbing agents available, making it particularly valuable in formulations designed for athletic and performance wear where persistent odor control is essential.
What does it do?
Zinc Ricinoleate works by chemically trapping and neutralizing odor molecules rather than simply masking them with fragrance. This ingredient is particularly effective at neutralizing body odor, foot odor, and other unpleasant smells commonly found in athletic wear. Unlike fragrance-based approaches that only cover up odors temporarily, Zinc Ricinoleate actually binds to odor-causing compounds at the molecular level, rendering them odorless. Importantly, it can continue to absorb and neutralize odors even in the presence of moisture—a critical feature for performance fabrics that are repeatedly exposed to sweat during workouts. This lasting odor control means athletic gear stays fresher between washes and maintains better odor resistance over the garment's lifetime.
How is it made?
Zinc Ricinoleate is produced by extracting ricinoleic acid from castor bean oil (Ricinus communis), then reacting this fatty acid with zinc oxide or zinc hydroxide to form the zinc salt. Castor oil naturally contains approximately 90% ricinoleic acid, making it an ideal and sustainable source for this ingredient. The resulting zinc ricinoleate compound combines the natural properties of plant-derived fatty acids with zinc's proven antimicrobial and odor-neutralizing capabilities.
Ingredient Safety Profile
Zinc Ricinoleate is recognized as a safe ingredient by leading environmental and health organizations:
- EPA Safer Choice Approved Ingredient: Zinc Ricinoleate meets EPA's criteria for safer chemical ingredients
- Recognized by EWG: Zinc Ricinoleate is acknowledged by the Environmental Working Group's safer ingredient standards
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Derived from Natural Sources: Based on castor oil, a renewable plant resource
Non-Masking Odor Control: Chemically neutralizes odors rather than covering them with fragrance - Effective in Moisture: Continues working in wet conditions, unlike many competing technologies
- Mild and Non-Irritating: Safe for use on fabrics that contact sensitive skin
- Long-Lasting Performance: Provides ongoing odor control that persists through multiple wear cycles
Important Note: While Zinc Ricinoleate itself is recognized as a safe ingredient by EPA Safer Choice and EWG standards, Heritage Park Activewear Laundry Detergent is not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED as a complete product formulation.
What product is this ingredient in?
* Not yet EPA Safer Choice Certified or EWG VERIFIED