Citrulline malate
Citrulline malate suppliers and sourcing guide
Citrulline malate is L-citrulline combined with malic acid, usually DL-malic acid, sold in fixed weight ratios such as 2:1 and 1:1. It is made either by blending fermentation-derived L-citrulline with malic acid or by crystallizing the two together. Brands buy it as a white, tart powder for pre-workout and sports drink mixes, where the ratio sets how much L-citrulline each gram provides.
- Category
- Proteins and amino acids
- Also known as
- L-citrulline DL-malate · CM · Citrulline malate 2:1
- Facts checked
- November 2026
Forms and grades of citrulline malate
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
2:1 citrulline malate
Two parts L-citrulline to one part malic acid by weight, the most common grade.
1:1 citrulline malate
Equal parts by weight, with less citrulline per gram and a more acidic taste.
Co-crystallized or blended
Some suppliers crystallize the two together and others dry-blend them; the spec should say which, since blends can separate.
Fermented (vegan) grade
Made with fermentation-derived L-citrulline, with the source stated on the spec.
What to check on the COA
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
- L-citrulline content
- L-citrulline by HPLC, which confirms the stated ratio and the citrulline delivered per gram.
- Malic acid content
- Malic acid by HPLC or titration, reported alongside citrulline.
- Identity
- Infrared spectrum or HPLC retention time against reference standards for both components.
- Loss on drying
- Moisture by loss on drying; malic acid takes up water and can cause caking.
- Heavy metals and microbiology
- Lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury by ICP-MS, plus total plate count, yeast and mold, E. coli and Salmonella.
Storage, lots and expiry
Storage and shelf life
Store sealed in lined containers in a cool, dry place; citrulline malate takes up moisture and cakes when exposed to humid air. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with citrulline content, moisture and micro as retest points.
Lots and expiry dates
Record the measured citrulline and malic acid content for each lot rather than relying on the nominal ratio, and calculate label claims from L-citrulline. Rotate stock FEFO.
Regulatory status
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
Health Canada's Workout Supplements monograph lists L-citrulline malate as a source ingredient for L-citrulline.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)The same monograph states that 1.7 g of L-citrulline is equivalent to 3 g of citrulline malate when setting a minimum dose.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)
This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Citrulline malate suppliers
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
We are checking citrulline malate suppliers now
Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.
Sell citrulline malate? Request a listingFrequently asked questions
What forms of citrulline malate can brands buy?
Common forms include 2:1 citrulline malate, 1:1 citrulline malate, co-crystallized or blended and fermented (vegan) grade. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
What should the COA for citrulline malate include?
Expect l-citrulline content, malic acid content, identity, loss on drying and heavy metals and microbiology, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
How should citrulline malate be stored?
Store sealed in lined containers in a cool, dry place; citrulline malate takes up moisture and cakes when exposed to humid air. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, with citrulline content, moisture and micro as retest points.
What is the regulatory status of citrulline malate?
Health Canada's Workout Supplements monograph lists L-citrulline malate as a source ingredient for L-citrulline. The same monograph states that 1.7 g of L-citrulline is equivalent to 3 g of citrulline malate when setting a minimum dose.
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