Shark Chondroitin Sulfate Sodium Powder
Shark chondroitin sulfate sodium (CAS 9082-07-9) is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan extracted from the cartilage of sustainably sourced shark species, characterized by a high proportion of chondroitin-6-sulfate (CSC, ~70–90%) and a molecular weight typically ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 Da. Shark cartilage is the richest natural source of chondroitin sulfate (up to 40–50% by dry weight), yielding a product with higher purity, lower protein content, and a more uniform sulfation profile than bovine-derived alternatives. As a major structural component of articular cartilage, shark chondroitin sulfate provides cartilage compressive resistance, joint lubrication, water retention, and anti-inflammatory activity. Human clinical studies and decades of therapeutic use (particularly in Asian and European markets) support shark chondroitin sulfate’s efficacy for osteoarthritis pain relief, improved joint mobility, slowed cartilage degradation, and skin health (hydration, elasticity, wound healing). Our shark chondroitin sulfate sodium is manufactured to USP/EP standards with assay ≥90% (high-purity grades ≥95% and ≥98%), sourced from shark fisheries with full chain-of-custody traceability, and available in powder and granule forms for premium dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, skincare, and functional cosmetics.
Technical Specifications
Items | Specification |
Appearance | White to off-white powder |
Identification | Infra Red Confirmed |
Sodium reaction | |
Assay | NLT90% |
Loss on drying | NMT10% |
Protein | NMT6.0% |
Heavy Metals | NMT20PPM |
PH (1% H2O Solution) | 5.5-7.5 |
Specific Rotation | -20°- – 30° |
Chloride | NMT 0.5% |
Sulfate | NMT 0.24% |
Residue on Ignition | 20%-30% |
Clarity (5% H2O Solution) | NMT0.35@420nm |
Organic volatile impurities | Meet the requirements |
Total Bacteria Count | NMT1000Cfu/g |
Yeast & Molds | NMT100Cfu/g |
Salmonella | Negative |
E.Coli | Negative |
Staphylococcus aureus | Negative |
What Is Shark Chondroitin Sulfate Sodium?
Shark chondroitin sulfate sodium is the sodium salt of a sulfated glycosaminoglycan extracted from shark cartilage (primarily from the vertebral column, fins, and jaw cartilage of sustainable shark species). It is the highest-purity and most uniform commercial source of chondroitin sulfate.
Key characteristics that distinguish shark from bovine chondroitin:
- Higher 6-sulfate content: Shark cartilage is predominantly chondroitin-6-sulfate (CSC, ~70–90%), with lower 4-sulfate content. Bovine cartilage is a more balanced mix (~40–60% each). 6-sulfated chondroitin is the predominant form in adult human articular cartilage, making shark chondroitin structurally more similar to human cartilage.
- Higher purity: Shark cartilage contains up to 40–50% chondroitin sulfate by dry weight (vs. ~15–30% in bovine trachea), resulting in a purer extract with lower protein and mineral contamination.
- Higher molecular weight: Shark chondroitin typically has MW 30,000–60,000 Da (vs. 20–50 kDa bovine), providing stronger water-binding and viscosity properties.
- Uniform structure: Shark cartilage has a more consistent sulfation pattern and chain length, delivering more batch-to-batch consistency.
- Premium positioning: Shark chondroitin is positioned as a premium, high-purity ingredient — particularly popular in Asian markets (Japan, Korea, China) and premium skincare formulations.
Shark Chondroitin Sulfate Sodium Benefits
- Joint & Skin Health: Multiple clinical trials (particularly in Japan, Italy, and Spain) demonstrate shark chondroitin sulfate (800–1200 mg/day) reduces knee and hip OA pain, improves joint function, and reduces NSAID use
- Hydration: High molecular weight and sulfate groups bind water, providing intense skin hydration (superior to bovine due to higher MW and purity)
- Elasticity & anti-aging: Stimulates dermal fibroblast glycosaminoglycan and collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines
- Wound healing: Supports fibroblast migration and proliferation, accelerating tissue repair
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces UV-induced inflammation and redness
- Eye health: Used in premium artificial tears and ophthalmic solutions for dry eye and corneal protection
- Sports nutrition: Used in premium joint support formulas for athletes and active individuals
- Pet health: Premium pet joint supplements for dogs and cats (high-purity shark source)
Shark Chondroitin Sulfate Sodium FAQ
- Is shark chondroitin sustainable? Yes — sourced from byproduct cartilage of food-fishery sharks, with MSC-certified options. No endangered species used.
- Why is shark more expensive than bovine? Shark cartilage has higher chondroitin content (40–50% vs. 15–30%), yielding purer product; shark sourcing and sustainability compliance add cost; premium positioning.
- Is shark chondroitin better than bovine? Different strengths — shark has higher purity, 6-sulfate content, and MW (better for skincare/premium); bovine has more extensive GAIT/MOVES clinical data and lower cost (better for standard supplements).
- Can vegetarians use shark chondroitin? No — it is animal-derived. Use plant-based algae chondroitin for vegan products.
- Does shark chondroitin contain mercury? No — cartilage is not a mercury-accumulating tissue; rigorous QC (heavy metals ≤10 ppm) ensures safety.