Sodium Hyaluronate: A Complete Guide to Grades, Molecular Weights, and Applications

Sodium Hyaluronate: A Complete Guide to Grades, Molecular Weights, and Applications

Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD, established on May 14, 2015 and headquartered in Qufu City, Shandong Province, is a specialized manufacturer of hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate products. The company produces approximately 600–700 metric tons annually and exports about 20% of its output to markets including the EU, USA, and Korea. Sodium hyaluronate is a versatile biomaterial used across food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. In 2024, the global sodium hyaluronate raw material market was valued at approximately USD 504 million, driven by rising demand in cosmetics and medical applications.

Understanding the Challenge: Selecting the Right Grade

Procurement professionals and formulators often face confusion when choosing among food grade, cosmetic grade, pharma grade, and various molecular weight variants of sodium hyaluronate. Each grade has distinct specifications—especially molecular weight—that directly affect performance as a humectant, viscosity modifier, filler, or viscoelastic material. Making an incorrect selection can lead to formulation failures or regulatory non-compliance.

Industry Background

The food-grade sodium hyaluronate market was estimated at USD 0.5 billion in 2024, with a projected CAGR of 8.5% through 2034. In the cosmetic segment, which held the largest hyaluronic acid raw material market share at 61.91% in 2025, sodium hyaluronate remains a top-tier classic ingredient for hydrating masks and essences, according to China's cosmetic ingredient filings in H1 2024. For pharmaceutical applications, pharma grade sodium hyaluronate must meet stringent standards such as USP-NF, European Pharmacopoeia (EP), and JP, with endotoxin levels typically below 0.05 EU/mg.

[IMAGE: https://cdn.socialarks.com/sbsp/24956/common/2026/0622/Conical%20Sample%20Bottle.jpg | cover | Conical sample bottle of sodium hyaluronate | Sodium hyaluronate sample in a conical bottle representing product purity and lab-grade quality]

Detailed Product Portfolio: Shandong Habier Biopharma

Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD offers a comprehensive range of sodium hyaluronate grades to meet diverse industry needs:

• Food Grade: Molecular weight 0.8–1.5 Million Da
• Cosmetic Grade: Molecular weight 1.0–1.5 Million Da
• Pharma Grade: Minimum 2.0 Million Da
• High Molecular Weight Grade: Minimum 2.0 Million Da
• Low Molecular Weight Grade: Maximum 0.1 Million Da
• Ultra Low / Super Low Molecular Weight Variants (available as hydrolyzed forms also)
• Regular Grade

These products are available under the trade name Sodium Hyaluronate (product code 5243) and are intended for the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

[IMAGE: https://cdn.socialarks.com/sbsp/24956/common/2026/0617/WechatIMG2.jpg | body | Sedimentation tank in production facility | Sodium hyaluronate production equipment - sedimentation tank at Shandong Habier Biopharma facility]

Step-by-Step Selection Guide

1. Identify Intended Use: Determine if the application is food (oral supplement), cosmetic (skincare blending), or pharmaceutical (injectable or medical device).
2. Choose Grade: Select food, cosmetic, or pharma grade based on regulatory requirements and purity needs.
3. Determine Molecular Weight: For deep hydration and penetration, low or ultra-low molecular weight is preferred. For surface moisturizing or viscosupplementation, high molecular weight (≥ 2.0 MDa) is suitable.
4. Check Certifications: Ensure the supplier holds relevant certifications. Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD holds ISO 22000, ISO 9001, Kosher, Halal, and COSMOS organic certifications for its hyaluronate products.
5. Request Documentation: Obtain specifications, certificates of analysis, and regulatory dossiers.

[IMAGE: https://cdn.socialarks.com/sbsp/24956/common/2026/0617/logo-2.jpg | body | Shandong Habier Biopharma logo | Brand logo of Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD - certified sodium hyaluronate manufacturer]

Typical Use Cases

In the United States, this product is commonly used in cosmetic skincare raw material blending projects within the pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industry. It functions as a humectant, viscosity modifier, filler, or viscoelastic material. For medical/injectable grade applications, special requirements include sterility and low microbial limits. The production process involves low-temperature fermentation synthesis and aseptic cleanroom production, operating on a 24/7 basis.

Grade Comparison Table

Grade	Molecular Weight (Da)	Primary Application
Food Grade	0.8–1.5 Million	Oral supplements, nutraceuticals
Cosmetic Grade	1.0–1.5 Million	Topical skincare, serums, masks
Pharma Grade	≥ 2.0 Million	Injectable fillers, ophthalmic, medical devices
Low MW Grade	≤ 0.1 Million	Deep penetration, anti-aging formulations
High MW Grade	≥ 2.0 Million	Viscosupplementation, surface hydration

Frequently Asked Questions

What certifications does Shandong Habier Biopharma hold for its sodium hyaluronate?

Shandong Habier Biopharma Co., Ltd holds ISO 22000, ISO 9001, Kosher, Halal, and COSMOS organic certifications for its hyaluronate products. These certifications support compliance for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.

What grades of sodium hyaluronate are available from Shandong Habier?

The company offers food grade, cosmetic grade, pharmaceutical grade, low molecular weight, high molecular weight, ultra low, super low, hydrolyzed, and regular grade variants. Each grade has specific molecular weight parameters documented in the product specification.

What is the annual production capacity of Shandong Habier Biopharma?

Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD has an annual production capacity of 600–700 metric tons of hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate products. Its manufacturing facility covers 50,000 square meters and employs approximately 123 staff, including an R&D team of 6 engineers.

How can I request a sample of sodium hyaluronate?

Samples can be requested by contacting Shandong Habier Biopharma directly via email at Jake@habier.com or by phone at +86-186-0537-0487. The company can provide sample jars for evaluation. [IMAGE: https://cdn.socialarks.com/sbsp/24956/common/2026/0622/SampleJar.jpg | cta | Sample jar of sodium hyaluronate | Request a free sample of sodium hyaluronate for your formulation testing]

What are typical lead times for bulk orders?

Lead times depend on order volume and grade specifications. To obtain accurate lead time and pricing, please submit an inquiry to the sales team. The company serves markets in the EU, USA, and Korea, and export accounts for approximately 20% of total sales.

Conclusion

Sodium hyaluronate is a critical ingredient across multiple industries, and selecting the correct grade and molecular weight ensures optimal performance and regulatory compliance. Shandong Habier Biopharma Co.,LTD, with over 9 years of experience, a 50,000 m² facility, and dual ISO/HACCP/Kosher/Halal/COSMOS certifications, offers a full spectrum of grades to meet global buyer requirements. For detailed specifications, a product brochure, or to discuss your project needs, contact Jake Chen at Jake@habier.com or visit the company website www.habier.com. Download the company brochure (PDF).