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Monique Day Monique Day

The Role of Tricalcium Phosphate in Food Production

Tricalcium phosphate is well regarded as a nutritional supplement, but its uses extend beyond that specific area. In fact, tricalcium phosphate has several valuable assets in food production, and food ingredient supplier Bell Chem wishes to shine a light on this important ingredient. 

Nutritional value

With the recent push toward functional foods, tricalcium phosphate has become an important additive because of its nutritional value. Packaged foods advertised as being high in calcium often contain tricalcium phosphate as an ingredient to boost that claim. However, supplementation is only one of tricalcium phosphate’s advantages. 

Another recent food trend is toward plant-based food alternatives. Plant-based substitutes mirroring the flavor and appearance of dairy products may pass muster for many consumers, but their nutritional value, especially in calcium, varies greatly. Adding tricalcium phosphate brings the calcium values back to the expected value, giving consumers all the benefits of dairy products with none of the guilt. 

Not only plant-based alternatives use tricalcium phosphate, though. Many foods, such as cereals or breakfast shakes, advertised as high in calcium are able to make this claim because of the addition of tricalcium phosphate. Think about the first foods babies eat - formula and baby foods. Their nutritional value is also heightened by tricalcium phosphate. 

pH stabilizer

While many additives have the ability to raise or lower the pH level in foods to enhance shelf life by prohibiting microbial growth, tricalcium phosphate adds a twist. When tricalcium phosphate becomes an ingredient, the change in pH alters the flavor of foods and beverages, giving a stable flavor throughout the product.

Caking inhibitor

Taking a bite of a packaged food and meeting with a mouth full of a gummy mass of powder is not a pleasant experience, especially considering the following mouthfuls of food likely consist of a much blander product. Tricalcium phosphate has the ability to inhibit the clumping of powders and other foods to ensure every bite tastes close to the same. Dairy products, pudding mixes, seasoning packages, salt, sugar, and other dried products contain tricalcium phosphate to prevent clumping. 

Baked goods powerhouse

Baked goods experience many mechanical changes in their creation. This may alter the texture of the product unless tricalcium phosphate is an ingredient. By leavening baked goods, carbon dioxide is trapped within the pastries, giving them a flakier or spongier structure. Starches and gluten are also enhanced with tricalcium phosphate for a stronger, more stable structure. 

Learn more about ingredients added to foods by clicking Bell Chem’s News button. Bell Chem is a food ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including tricalcium phosphate. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Anthony Cervo Anthony Cervo

Bell Chem, A Division of Quadra, Unveils New Branded Fleet in Company-Wide Celebration

Bell Chem, A Division of Quadra, recently marked an exciting milestone with a company-wide truck unveiling event that celebrated both growth and collaboration. The event brought team members together to officially introduce Bell Chem’s newly branded delivery trucks—an important step forward in strengthening service capabilities across Florida.

The unveiling showcased a fresh fleet design that thoughtfully blends the Bell Chem and Quadra brands. The trucks reflect a unified visual identity while reinforcing a shared commitment to quality, reliability, and customer focus. Quadra’s continued investment in Bell Chem after its acquisition shows dedication to sustaining customer relationships and supporting ongoing growth.

The event itself was a celebration of teamwork and shared purpose. Employees from across the organization gathered to view the new trucks, connect with colleagues, and enjoy catered lunch from Pizza Bruno. The event encouraged conversation and camaraderie while highlighting the importance of every team member in delivering on Bell Chem’s promise to customers.

For Bell Chem customers, the new fleet represents enhanced delivery capabilities and ongoing investment in logistics and service excellence. These trucks will play a vital role in ensuring timely, dependable delivery of high-quality products throughout Florida and into new markets as the business continues to grow.

As Bell Chem moves forward as part of Quadra, these beautifully branded trucks convey a clear message: the combined organization is committed to building on Bell Chem’s strong foundation while providing customers with the best possible products, service, and delivery experience.

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Monique Day Monique Day

Best Practices for Handling Cleaning Chemicals in a Food Production Setting

Assuring the safety of workers who come into contact with cleaning chemicals is crucial for manufacturers. That safety begins with the understanding of what constitutes cleaning chemicals as well as their role in food production. Cleaning chemical supplier Bell Chem wants to help shed light on the importance of cleaning chemicals and how workers can safely handle them. 

A brief overview of cleaning chemicals

As foods are processed, many surfaces come into contact with the ingredients used to create the end products. Some of these surfaces may be contaminated with more than debris; bacteria or other biological agents may also be present. In order to clear the contaminants, cleaning chemicals must be utilized. The role of cleaners is simple: remove all surface detritus before applying decontaminants. 

Generally, cleaners do not have any disinfecting chemicals, since that falls within the category of disinfectants. Surfaces coming into contact with foods and beverages usually necessitate a cleaner to remove baked-on or caked-on debris to ensure the disinfectants are able to properly clear the surfaces of pathogens. 

The method used for each surface is indicative of whether it requires a cleaner, a sanitizer, or a disinfectant. While many users might automatically turn to the most heavy-duty product - a disinfectant - it is vital to recognize the importance of using the least hazardous chemical to properly clear the area, especially those in contact with food products.

Handling cleaning chemicals

Although cleaning chemicals are often marketed as less hazardous than disinfectants, they still require care in handling. The best practice is to read the safety data sheets for every cleaning chemical before its use to ensure proper treatment. The data sheets emphasize the proper protective gear to wear while handling chemicals, how to store the chemicals, and what steps to take in case of spills or mishandling along with dozens of other helpful facts and precautions. 

Safe working conditions

Employers are obligated to provide their workers with a non-hazardous environment. To that end, workers must be trained in safety protocol, including knowing whether chemicals can be mixed. For instance, an employee might believe mixing a cleaner with a disinfectant would cut the work time in half. However, the chemicals in question may be incompatible and cause extreme irritation to the mucosal membranes of that worker and others in the surrounding area. Knowing how to safely handle every chemical is key.

Another important facet of chemical handling is dilution. Many chemicals arrive in concentrated forms with instructions on dilution. Ensure employees understand the amount to dilute for each task. 

Next, all chemicals must be clearly labeled. Never fill a used container with another chemical if the original label is intact. All used containers must be thoroughly cleaned before reuse, then properly labeled and stored.

Fourth, the majority of chemicals used in a closed room require ventilation to ensure sufficient air flow since vapors are almost always invisible and can quickly increase to dangerous levels.

Lastly, every worker needs to be trained in the use of any chemicals they are expected to use regularly, and wash stations and all other safety stations need to be installed to facilitate immediate care in case of emergencies.

Bell Chem has a large library of posts regarding chemicals and their safety free for your use. Bell Chem is a cleaning chemical supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including a wide range of reliable CSANTM sanitation products. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Monique Day Monique Day

How Additives Support Produce-Based Convenience Items

Convenient foods are generally regarded as highly processed grab-and-go items, but a trend toward produce-based foods is becoming evident. Food ingredient supplier Bell Chem has the additives you need to keep your produce-based convenience business successful. The categories below explain a few of the many roles additives play in produce-based convenience items.

Artificial flavoring and coloring

Fruit chews and leathers have the penchant to transform in color and flavor as they dehydrate. One bite may taste and appear significantly different than the last without the addition of artificial flavoring and coloring. Giving consumers uniform flavor and appearance by adding Sucralose, aspartame, or citric acid sells products more quickly. Even fresh fruits and vegetables along with salad kits are sprayed with additives such as ascorbic acid or sodium benzoate to maintain their flavor and appearance. 

Artificial preservatives 

Artificial preservatives are key in maintaining a stable shelf life for products. Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate fill this role perfectly. With a naturally low pH range, sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate both deter the growth of microbes in food products. Look for either of these additives in packaged fresh foods such as hummus.

Stabilizers and emulsifiers

Guar gum and xanthan gum are both long-chain carbohydrates. When added to soups and dips, they transform a liquid soup into a more substantial meal. High in fiber, guar gum and xanthan gum have the added benefit of creating a feeling of satiety to the consumer, as they expand to over 10 times their original size once ingested. Many manufacturers rely on the addition of guar gum or xanthan gum in their gluten-free baked goods to maintain the airiness of their products.

Humectants 

When foods are dry and crumbly, consumers are more likely to seek out an alternative. Adding humectants, such as glycerin, sorbitol, or xylitol to fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables retains moisture, improves mouthfeel, deters the formation of ice crystals, and stabilizes shelf life. 

When you are ready to wow your customers with produce-based convenience foods, invest in quality ingredients offered by Bell Chem. Bell Chem is a food ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including a vast array of additives and ingredients. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Monique Day Monique Day

How SPF Moisturizers Offer Sun Protection Benefits

When consumers think of SPF, they tend to picture sunscreen. However, personal care raw material supplier Bell Chem has another interesting source of sun protection: moisturizers. Adding SPF to moisturizers can change periodic usage of sun protection factors to daily usage. Read below to learn more.

Why an SPF Moisturizer is Worthwhile

A recent survey found a surprising amount of Americans — 37% of those surveyed — refrain from washing their hands after they use the restroom. Compare that with flossing — only 32% of those surveyed floss — and you notice a trend of individuals who know what habits they should be following but fail to actually engage in that habit. Sunscreen is much the same, and because physicians lament the sheer number of their patients who risk melanoma by not wearing sunscreen, they recognize the importance of layering SPF into moisturizers. 

The Value of SPF Moisturizer

People are busy. If taking a few moments out of the day to apply sunscreen seems out of the question, then thinking about reapplying it every few hours if you are outside feels daunting. Often parents only manage to streak sunscreen onto their arms or across their foreheads as they wrangle their children into outdoor gear and glaze them with SPF 50. The idea of adding an SPF to moisturizer, which many of us use every day, seems like a convenient solution. Even better, this extra layer of SPF moisturizer protects and hydrates the skin.

The Best Type of SPF Moisturizer

Not all SPF moisturizers are created equally. Read the label to ensure your moisturizer’s SPF rating is SPF 30 or greater and protects against both UVA and UVB rays (broad-spectrum sunscreens). Because moisturizers are generally part of the morning’s cosmetics routine, they are considered the “foundation” under the foundation. After makeup is applied, most individuals are reluctant to remove all cosmetics to reapply SPF moisturizer. 

This means it is vitally important for SPF moisturizers to meet these more-stringent standards. Many SPF moisturizers contain both a chemical barrier, such as avobenzone, and a physical (mineral) barrier, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which Bell Chem offers. Much like sunscreen, choosing the correct SPF moisturizer depends on skin sensitivity. Individuals with easily irritated skin generally choose SPF moisturizers with mineral sunscreens. 

Bell Chem is a personal care raw materials supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Monique Day Monique Day

What You Need to Know About Lactic Acid

For workout enthusiasts, lactic acid is associated with sore muscles. Is this myth even true? Surprisingly, lactic acid is a phenomenal immune system booster and has a bevy of health benefits, which is why food additive supplier Bell Chem proudly stocks it in its spacious warehouse.

Lactic Acid Basics

When foods ferment, yeasts, bacteria, fungi, or molds eat carbohydrates to generate acid (such as lactic acid), alcohol, or gas. The product is often lactic acid. This fermentation is beneficial to the human body, and the “acid” portion of its name means a lower pH, which prevents bacterial growth. To manufacturers, this equates to a more stable product with a longer shelf life.

Lactic Acid as a Gel

When lactic acid comes into contact with dairy proteins, hydrogen bonds chain the atoms together, forming a gel-like structure. This greatly enhances the texture of yogurt and soft cheese. In non-dairy products, lactic acid and hydrocolloids such as carrageenan form a similar matrix. Plant-based milks and cheeses produced by trending industries owe a huge amount of their structures to lactic acid.

Curing with Lactic Acid

Sausages and cured meats rely on lactic acid because of its low pH, which creates an environment unfavorable for microbial growth. Acids such as lactic acid also denature proteins, breaking the long protein strands into smaller protein segments, which changes their texture as well as their flavor.

Fermentation with Lactic Acid

One of the key roles of lactic acid in the food industry is in fermentation. The bacteria involved in lactic acid production are known collectively as lactic acid bacteria (LAB). These bacteria convert sugar, such as lactose or starch, into lactic acid. In turn, the lactic acid lowers the pH of the product and causes it to ferment, releasing the increased flavors and textures associated with fermented foods.

Health Benefits of Lactic Acid

As mentioned previously, lactic acid strengthens the human immune system by providing the foods in which it has additive antioxidant properties. Lactic acid also assists in vitamin and mineral absorption which aids in defraying infections. It also acts as a cellular marker, directing white blood cells to the site of an ongoing infection. 

During anaerobic exercise, your cells create energy from available carbohydrates. The end product is lactic acid, which your body generally filters through the liver or kidneys to create glucose.

Bell Chem is a food additive supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including lactic acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Monique Day Monique Day

Debunking Common Myths about Chemicals in Personal Care Products

When it comes to personal care items, the majority of products seem to fall into one of two categories: natural (including organic or chemical-free) and traditional (man-made) products. The former tend to be more expensive with fewer filler items while the latter are the tried-and-true products our parents and grandparents used. Personal care raw materials supplier Bell Chem wishes to share vital information on how alike — and different — these two categories are.

Chemical-free products are automatically cleaner.

While this category seems innocuous enough, it faces deep scrutiny, since even water is a chemical. In fact, everything in the universe is composed of chemicals. These products may not have as many synthetic chemicals as their counterparts, but they still contain chemicals. The myth that chemicals are bad for you needs to be buried; science prevails. Many of the raw materials Bell Chem stocks are chemicals that prove to be beneficial to personal care, such as hydrogen peroxide for its oxidizing and antimicrobial properties in hair dyes and teeth whiteners, isopropyl alcohol for killing bacteria in skin astringents, and phosphoric acid to balance pH and stabilize personal care products. 

Organic products are always better for you. 

Organic ingredients are generally better for the environment and leave less of an environmental footprint in the short or long term. To deem a product organic means it has gone through a rigorous process to prove the sources of all its ingredients were raised organically before the combination could be labeled organic. In other words, if a product contains oat milk, the oats had to be raised in an organic farm using organic fertilizer, which means the animals involved in the organic fertilizer had to likewise be raised organically, eating organic feed. This lengthy trail leads to an increase in prices, but the products are better for the earth and generally better for consumers. Some of the organic ingredients offered by Bell Chem, like aloe vera powder and glycerine, can be easily incorporated into personal care products.  

Natural products are less harmful. 

This category is quite interesting since many “natural” elements can be highly toxic. Natural, in that respect, is simply a buzzword. On the other hand, “natural” versus “artificial” has a completely different meaning. When a manufacturer adds ingredients to its finished products that grow naturally rather than those created synthetically in a lab, the body may process the ingredients differently and benefit the end user. Looking closely at the product labels determines exactly what the manufacturer had in mind. Bell Chem’s natural products include acetone, the main ingredient in nail polish remover.

More chemicals means less quality.

Many companies are guilty of “greenwashing” their customers into believing their more expensive products are significantly better than their competitors’. Don’t be fooled by the hype. Bell Chem’s products have been thoroughly tested and are guaranteed to meet or exceed all quality control standards set forth by the FDA, DEA, EPA, and OSHA. Expect only the best when you purchase from Bell Chem. 

Bell Chem is a personal care raw materials supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including a vast supply of personal care ingredients. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Boric Acid Monique Day Boric Acid Monique Day

Boric Acid: Safety and Uses in Various Industries

The use of any acid requires safety standards, and boric acid is no exception. With its myriad uses across industries, it is imperative to handle boric acid safely for the sake of your employees and that of your customers. Bell Chem, your industrial chemical supplier, wants to help you better understand the safety and uses of boric acid across industries.

Boric acid safety controls

Boric acid is often used as a pesticide. While it is incredibly toxic to pests, it is much safer for humans than other pesticides. However, it is still critical to handle boric acid according to its Safety Data Sheet. Add only the amount of boric acid recommended; more is not better. When working with boric acid, wear a dust mask or respirator as well as eye protection. Keep boric acid away from open wounds. After working with boric acid, wash exposed areas of your body thoroughly. 

Boric acid in farming

Pesticides use boric acid because of its ability to shatter insects’ exoskeletons as it disrupts the insects’ nervous systems. When using boric acid as a pesticide in crops, it also acts as an amendment for crops low on boron. 

Modification of cotton layers

Cotton modification relies on a layer-by-layer process with sodium lignin sulphonate, chitosan, and boric acid. When these 3 additives are present, their ionic differences create cotton fabrics offering UV protection, no-iron properties, and antibacterial fabrics. 

Automotive battery additive

Vehicles running on gas rely on lead-acid batteries to perform many functions. These batteries are inexpensive and perform quite well. Adding boric acid improves their performance by eliminating much of the battery’s overcharging tendencies. This extends the cycling life of the battery, giving a great battery with a longer lifespan.

Medical applications

While end users are warned not to expose open wounds to boric acid, the medical field has found boric acid a very good alternative in chronic wound treatment for patients who are unable to find relief through traditional treatment. Topical application of boric acid increased fibroblast production and collagen synthesis as it stimulated the development of new blood vessels. As a 3% topical solution, boric acid greatly reduced Pseudomonas aeruginosa in wounds, especially when other antiseptics were unsuccessful. Because it works as an antiseptic, boric acid is also used as an ingredient in ophthalmic and dermal applications.

Bell Chem is an industrial chemical supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including boric acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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Anthony Cervo Anthony Cervo

Job Opportunity: Senior Purchasing Manager with Bell Chem, A Division of Quadra 

Bell Chem, a proud division of Quadra Group, is on the lookout for a dynamic and experienced Senior Purchasing Manager to join our team! If you’re passionate about procurement and supply chains and thrive in the food ingredients and commodities space, we would love to hear from you!

Apply Here

About The Role

We are seeking a highly strategic and results-driven Senior Purchasing Manager to lead sourcing initiatives for our food ingredients and chemical business. This role is critical to ensure our purchasing decisions are aligned with market dynamics, profitability goals, and competitive positioning.

Here is your chance to make a meaningful impact in a growing and innovative organization! Reporting to the Business Director – Food Ingredients, the ideal candidate will bring deep industry knowledge, strong supplier relationships, and a proactive approach to procurement strategy.

What would be your responsibilities as a Senior Purchasing Manager? :

  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies for key food ingredients and chemical categories to optimize cost, quality, and supply assurance.

  • Monitor global and regional market trends, commodity pricing, and supply chain risks to inform purchasing decisions.

  • Conduct spending analysis and identify opportunities for cost optimization, supplier consolidation, and process improvement.

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and industry stakeholders.

  • Lead contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms and long-term value creation.

  • Continuously evaluate supplier performance and identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, Finance, and Operations to align sourcing strategies with business objectives, including managing and optimizing inventory levels.

  • Collaborate with the Quality team to ensure all supplier and product documentation is on file for new and approved vendors.

  • Stay informed on regulatory changes, sustainability trends, and emerging technologies impacting the relevant industries (such as food ingredients, industrial chemicals, personal care, etc.).

  • Maintain accurate purchasing data, supplier information, and contract documentation in ERP systems.

  • Track and report on key sourcing metrics (cost savings, supplier performance, risk exposure).

What are the required qualifications to have success in this position?:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Sciences, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree would be considered a strong asset.

  • Minimum 7+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or procurement within the food ingredients or food manufacturing industry. Exposure to the commodities market would be a definite plus.

  • Strong understanding of global ingredient markets, key players, and supply chain dynamics.

  • Exceptional negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities with both internal and external stakeholders.

  • Strong ability to analyze market data and make sound, strategic sourcing decisions.

  • Proven success managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

  • Demonstrated business acumen, cost-consciousness, and a results-driven approach to achieving goals.

  • Clear and confident presentation and influencing skills at all organizational levels.

  • Willingness to travel to attend trade shows and industry conference and events.

Apply here

Bell Chem is part of Quadra, one of North America’s leading distributors of chemicals and ingredients. We’re a fast-growing organization built on strong values, long-term commitment to our people, and a passion for excellence. At Quadra, our employees are engaged, professional, and proud of the difference they make every day. If you’re driven by results and ready to grow with a company that invests in its people — you belong at Quadra.

Here’s some of the perks of choosing this position with us:

  • Tailored training: We provide personalized training to support you and your growth

  • Permanent, full-time position: Join us for a stable, long-term career

  • Competitive salary & Performance Incentives: Your hard work is rewarded with attractive compensation and bonuses

  • Excellent Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and more to keep you covered including our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Generous Time Off: Flexible personal days, sick days and vacation to recharge

  • Wellness Programs: Enhance your quality of life with wellness initiatives, including health and mental wellness programs from healthcare leader

  • 401(K) with match: Plan your future with our matched retirement program

  • Tech Perks: We cover your cellphone and internet costs

  • Family-owned and support environment: Be part of a private, family-owned company with a strong infrastructure and core values

  • Award-Winning Workplace: Work in a certified Great Place to Work®, WEConnect Women Owned, and Best Managed Company!

  • Inclusive Culture: We celebrate diversity and caring for each other and having fun are part of our core values!

  • Career Growth: Unlock opportunities for development in a fast-paced growing company

  • Fun Social Activities: Get involved in company events, Volunteering programs, etc.

  • Referral & Recognition Programs: Earn monetary rewards through our referral and employee recognition programs (years of service, merit awards, etc.)

Apply Here

Quadra supports and values diversity and offer equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status and gender identity. Quadra also welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. We recognize that some people do not identify themselves as either male or female. Therefore, whenever possible, we have opted for a gender-neutral wording in a non-discriminatory spirit.

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The Science Behind the Effectiveness of USP Ingredients

You have undoubtedly heard of USP ingredients, but you may not fully understand their role in keeping the manufacture and consumption of foods and equipment safe. USP ingredient supplier Bell Chem has the following information to help you better appreciate the science behind USP ingredients and how they keep facilities and end-users safe. 

USP (United States Pharmacopeia) develops standards for testing and developing products. Their end result is the marketing of products that pose little or no risk for the end users. USP tests include ensuring sterility of products labeled as such, measuring the biological burden of products to verify they fall within a standard range, and maintaining products are free of endotoxins. Together, these tests check the identity, strength, purity, and performance of products while answering the questions of what a product contains, in what amount, how pure the product is, and how it works.

The USP Ingredient Verification Programs for products used for human consumption and medical care are strictly controlled not once, but continually. All portions of the supply chain must meet these guidelines in order for an end product to meet the strict USP standards. Bell Chem’s selection of USP products ensures your supply chain is USP verified and meets or exceeds all standards. Your organization benefits since the products shipped via Bell Chem are consistent, of the highest quality, and certified. 

USP Ingredient Verification for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)

APIs are the active ingredients - the medicine - given to individuals over-the-counter or prescribed. These medications may be natural or synthetic; their efficacy is based on the correct dosage. 

USP Ingredient Verification for Excipients

On the flip side of APIs are excipients. Most ingredients contained within medications are excipients with the active ingredient requiring a small fraction of a pill or capsule by volume. Bell Chem’s vast quantities of USP excipients include lactose anhydrous, microcrystalline cellulose 101 and 102, and magnesium stearate, to name a few.

USP Ingredient Verification for Dietary Ingredients

How do you verify what is written on a package is what is contained within it? USP verified dietary ingredients ensure the label matches the contents every time. Aspartame, caffeine, folic acid, and sodium chloride are all Bell Chem USP-verified ingredients you will be proud to add to your packaging.

The strict USP guidelines Bell Chem follows ensure our products meet or exceed all cGMP and QCM guidelines annually.  

Examples of USP testing

USP testing includes several variations with the most common - USP 61 and USP 62 - focusing on microbial contaminants of products used in healthcare and the food and drug industries. The microbes are tested on a variety of agar plates to determine growth of the microbe in question. Diluents such as sterile saline and neutralizers such as sodium thiosulfate are active participants in sample preparation. 

With pharmaceuticals, a simple USP sample test removes random capsules from a lot and tests them to verify their contents do not vary widely from one capsule to the next, and that the active ingredients contained within match the amount present on the label. Each capsule is assayed to determine individual weights of each ingredient.

Bell Chem is a USP ingredient supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.

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