D-PANTHENOL is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow, viscous liquid that is practically odorless, slightly hygroscopic, and may crystallise on prolonged storage. It is soluble in water, freely soluble in ethanol, slightly soluble in ether, and insoluble in fats and oils. D-PANTHENOL is fairly stable to air and light. It is hygroscopic and sensitive to heat; heating to over 70 °C may cause racemization. However, it may be heated to 40 °C for short periods in order to improve flowability. D-PANTHENOL meets all requirements of the USP, FCC and Ph. Eur. when tested according to these compendia. D-PANTHENOL is suitable for use in the food industry as it is a provitamin B5 that helps in the synthesis of coenzymes involved in energy production and fatty acid synthesis. It also helps in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones.