Formic acid
What is Formic acid?
Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid. It occurs naturally in the venom of ants (the genus name 'Formica' means ant in Latin) and is produced by some plants. Industrially, it can be produced from methanol and carbon monoxide.
Is Formic acid a major allergen?
Formic acid is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Formic acid used for?
Formic acid is used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in animal feed.
Is Formic acid safe?
Formic acid is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed as E236.
Why it's used
Formic acid is used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in animal feed. In food, it can be used as an acidity regulator, contributing a sharp, pungent flavour. It is found in some yogurts and other fermented dairy products.
Health notes
Formic acid is authorised as a food additive in the UK and the EU, listed as E236. It is evaluated by EFSA, which has set an acceptable daily intake. At typical levels of use in food, it is not considered to pose a health risk. There is ongoing research into its metabolic pathways and potential effects, but no widespread controversies regarding its safety at permitted levels.
Allergen info
Formic acid is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Formic acid
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