Sodium caseinate is highly water-soluble and disperses readily in aqueous systems, making it the preferred form for coffee creamers, emulsified sauces, and processed meats. Calcium caseinate is less soluble but provides a slower protein release profile, which is valued in sports nutrition and meal-replacement products. Procurement teams should specify the cation form in purchase orders because the two are not interchangeable in most formulations.

Casein glues intended for purely industrial use — such as woodworking adhesives or label adhesives — are not subject to FDA food safety admissibility review, though they may still require accurate HTS classification and standard customs documentation. Food-grade caseinates, by contrast, are subject to FDA oversight including Foreign Supplier Verification Program requirements. Importers should clearly distinguish the intended use in their entry documentation to ensure correct regulatory treatment.