Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Malic acid (food additive E296) is an organic compound, a dibasic hydroxy acid, which is used in the food industry as an acidity regulator or flavoring agent.
Due to its widespread occurrence in nature, malic acid is considered a natural additive. It is found in many fruits and berries: unripe apples, grapes, barberries, rowan, raspberries, rhubarb, and other acidic plants.
The compound was first isolated in 1785 by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele from unripe apples. Later, chemists determined its structure and properties. The chemical formula of malic acid is C4H6O5.
Today, on an industrial scale, additive E296 is most often produced synthetically by hydrating maleic or fumaric acid at temperatures up to 200°C.
This method allows the production of large volumes of the product with a high degree of purity and consistent quality.
In appearance, additive E296 is a colorless, sour-tasting crystalline powder. It is highly soluble in water and ethanol and melts at approximately 100°C. Malic acid is highly hygroscopic and readily participates in oxidation and reduction reactions.
In biochemistry, the salts of malic acid are called malates. Malates play an important role in cellular metabolism, participating in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and gluconeogenesis.
In the food industry, malates are also used as acidity regulators and stabilizers. The main additives include:
Effects on the Body
Benefits of Additive E296
Malic acid is a natural metabolite and an intermediate product of metabolism in the human body. In the form of malates, it plays an important role in energy metabolism, participates in the cellular respiratory cycle, and in the formation of ATP, the universal energy source for cells.
In medical practice, additive E296 is used in some formulations to improve metabolism and as an auxiliary substance.
Risks of Additive E296
In normal amounts consumed with food, additive E296 is considered safe. However, excessive intake may cause irritation of the stomach and intestinal mucosa, as well as excessive exposure to tooth enamel.
Additive E296 was evaluated by the Scientific Committee on Food (SCF) in 1991. The committee concluded that establishing an additional acceptable daily intake (ADI) for additive E296 is unnecessary, as the substance is naturally metabolized by the body.
Earlier, the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA, 1980) also concluded that malic acid is readily metabolized by laboratory animals and humans, and there is no reason to limit its intake (ADI).
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) included additive E296 in the list of substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
Uses
In the food industry, additive E296 is used as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavoring agent. It enhances the refreshing sour taste of beverages and foods, helps stabilize aroma, and extends shelf life.
Main areas of application:
- Production of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages (fruit drinks, ciders, wines);
- Confectionery products, marmalade, chewing gum;
- Fruit and vegetable preserves;
- Infant food (in strictly regulated amounts);
- Meat and fish semi-finished products for acidity regulation.
In medicine, additive E296 is used as a component of mild laxatives and remedies for hoarseness, and in cosmetics — as an ingredient in creams, masks, and peels due to its mild exfoliating effect.
Legal Status
Additive E296 is permitted for use in the food industry in most countries worldwide.
In the European Union, additive E296 is recognized as safe and included in the list of permitted food additives according to Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008. According to European legislation, additive E296 is also officially permitted for use in the food industry in Ukraine.
In the United States, additive E296 is included in the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) list, allowing its use in a wide range of food products. In Canada, additive E296 as an acidity regulator is permitted for use in beverages, confectionery, and several other product categories. In Japan, additive E296 is included in the list of organic acids approved for use in the food industry.
