Magnesium stearate is the magnesium salt of the fatty acid, stearic acid (Fig. 1). It has been widely used for many decades in the food industry as an emulsifier, binder and thickener, as well as an anticaking, lubricant, release, and antifoaming agent.

Stearic acid is derived from animal sources or plant-based sources. Vegetarian sources of magnesium stearate include palm oil, coconut oil and vegetable oil. PURE LAB VITAMINS uses “plant based” as their source of magnesium stearate.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it's considered safe for consumption at amounts below 2,500 milligrams (mg) per kilogram per day. For a 150-pound adult, that equals 170,000 mg per day.

If the body has absorbed too much magnesium, a person may notice any of the following symptoms, which can range from mild to very severe: lethargy. facial flushing. diarrhea.

MAGNESIUM STEARATE PRECIPITED FINE POWDER