Magnesium stearate is often used as an anti-adherent in the manufacture of vitamins, capsules and powders.

In this regard, the substance is also useful because it has lubricating properties preventing ingredients from sticking to manufacturing equipment that require powder flow such as a pill manufacturing machine or a capsule filling machine.

Magnesium stearate is also used to bind sugar in hard candies like mints, and is a common ingredient in baby formulas.