Malic acid
What is Malic acid?
Malic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many fruits, notably apples. It can be produced industrially through the hydration of maleic anhydride or by fermentation using specific microorganisms. It contributes to the tartness and flavour of foods.
Is Malic acid vegan?
Malic acid is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Malic acid gluten-free?
It is not related to gluten.
Is Malic acid a major allergen?
Malic acid is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Malic acid used for?
Malic acid is commonly used as an acidity regulator and flavour enhancer in the food industry.
Is Malic acid safe?
Malic acid is authorised as a food additive in the UK and European Union, listed as E296.
Why it's used
Malic acid is commonly used as an acidity regulator and flavour enhancer in the food industry. It provides a sharp, lingering sourness, often used in fruit-flavoured beverages, sweets, and crisps to mimic the taste of fresh fruit or to balance other flavours. It is also used in sugar-free products to provide tartness without adding sugar.
Health notes
Malic acid is authorised as a food additive in the UK and European Union, listed as E296. It has been evaluated by EFSA, and JECFA has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake. Some studies suggest it may play a role in energy metabolism, but evidence for significant health benefits or adverse effects at typical dietary levels is limited.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 4.1.2 peeled cut and shredded fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tablets | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | No numerical limit listed |
| 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices | 3000 |
| 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Malic acid is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not related to gluten.
Foods that contain Malic acid
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