Abstract: The invention is drawn to a composition comprising a tin(II) 2-hydroxycarboxylate, where the 2-hydroxycarboxylate is preferably selected from the group consisting of glycolate, lactate, mandelate and 2-hydroxybutyrate. The tin(II) 2-hydroxycarboxylates may be prepared by a method comprising the steps of (a) providing an aqueous solution of a tin(II) salt, (b) adding a 2-hydroxycarboxylic acid, or a salt of a 2-hydroxycarboxylic acid, (c) further adding a base, wherein the tin(II) 2-hydroxycarboxylate precipitates, (d) optionally, isolating the tin(II) 2-hydroxycarboxylate, and (e) optionally, drying. The tin(II) 2-hydroxycarboxylates and compositions containing them are useful in oral care applications, and as catalysts for chemical condensation reactions and/or the production of polymers.