Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Food additive E297 (fumaric acid) is a natural organic compound used in the food industry as an acidity regulator.
In nature, fumaric acid occurs in various plants, including spinach, tomatoes, and rhubarb, as well as in lichens and fungi.
At the cellular level, fumaric acid is an essential participant in the Krebs cycle (tricarboxylic acid cycle), supporting cellular respiration and efficient energy production.
Fumaric acid was first isolated in the 18th century from plants of the genus Fumaria officinalis, from whose Latin name the compound derives its name. In the mid-20th century, it began to be used as a food additive and acidity regulator, opening new possibilities for its application in the food industry.
The chemical formula of additive E297 is C4H4O4. Physically, fumaric acid appears as a colorless or white crystalline substance with a sour taste. It is poorly soluble in water but dissolves well in alcohols and hot water.
For food use, additive E297 is produced mainly by synthetic or biotechnological methods. The synthetic method involves oxidation or isomerization of organic compounds such as maleic acid or butadiene derivatives, followed by conversion of the cis-isomer into the stable trans-isomer. The biotechnological method is based on fermentation using microorganisms, such as fungi of the genus Aspergillus, after which the acid is purified and crystallized for use in food products.
Effects on the Body
Benefit of Additive E297
Fumaric acid is a natural component of metabolism and is present in the human body as an intermediate metabolic product. It plays an important role in cellular respiration, supporting efficient energy metabolism and ATP production necessary for cell function.
Due to its natural metabolic compatibility, fumaric acid is fully metabolized by the body and does not accumulate in tissues.
Scientific studies show that fumaric acid derivatives have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties and are used in medical practice to treat autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis and multiple sclerosis.
According to the official evaluation by the FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), fumaric acid and its salts have an “ADI not specified” status, indicating their safety when consumed at typical levels used in food.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is currently conducting a public data collection for the re-evaluation of the safety of additive E297.
Risks of Additive E297
Although fumaric acid is generally considered safe for most people, studies indicate that excessive intake may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing abdominal pain or diarrhea.
It is important to note that these effects are associated not with the food additive E297 in foods, but with the therapeutic use of its esters at significantly higher doses than those used in the food industry. Therefore, the main risk is related to prolonged consumption of high doses of fumaric acid, primarily in medicinal products.
Uses
In the food industry, additive E297 is mainly used as an acidity regulator and acidulant, helping improve product taste and stability.
Additive E297 is used in soft drinks, jams, marmalade, and confectionery products.
Due to its low hygroscopicity, fumaric acid absorbs very little moisture, making it valuable for dry mixes, instant beverages, and powdered confectionery products by preventing caking and ensuring uniform texture.
In addition, fumaric acid has preservative properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and mold and extending shelf life without affecting sensory qualities.
Fumaric acid is also used in several other industries:
- Pharmaceuticals and medicine: for the production of medicinal products and as a raw material for fumaric acid esters used in the treatment of psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. It is also used in buffer systems and pharmaceutical excipients.
- Cosmetics industry: as a pH regulator in cosmetic and dermatological products and in formulations designed to maintain controlled acidity.
- Chemical industry: as a raw material for the synthesis of polymers, resins, plasticizers, and unsaturated polyester resins used in paints, coatings, adhesives, and composite materials.
- Agriculture: as a component of animal feed additives to regulate acidity and stabilize microbiological processes in feed.
Legal Status
Food additive E297 is approved for use in most countries worldwide.
In the European Union, the use of additive E297 is regulated by Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives.
In Ukraine, additive E297 is included in the list of permitted food additives, and its use is regulated by national legislation in accordance with safety requirements similar to those of EU law.
In the United States, fumaric acid is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for food use.