Food Additives Encyclopedia

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formic acid ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nameformic acid
English nameformic acid
INS/E numberINS 236
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1967
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Formic acid is a simple monocarboxylic acid used as a preservative and acidifying agent; it also occurs naturally in many plants and animals.

Source ​

Industrial：一氧化碳与氢氧化钠加压反应生成甲酸钠，再酸化制得甲酸

Why is it used? ​

  • Antimicrobial preservative effect
  • Adjusts acidity as an acidulant
  • Used to preserve fish products and silage
  • Natural metabolite, normally metabolised in the body

Common Foods ​

  • Fish products (traditional preservation)
  • Silage/animal feed
  • Some acidic foods
  • Food processing aid

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：not limited (内源性代谢物)

Concerns：

  • 高浓度有腐蚀性
  • 主要用于饲料及特定食品

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 236)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1021 (Formic acid, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 236)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Formic acid)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI not limited)

In a nutshell ​

Formic acid is a natural simple organic acid used as preservative and acidulant, safely metabolised.

Consumer Advice ​

Formic acid is the simplest organic acid, historically used as a preservative, but it is banned for food use in the EU and is not an approved food additive in China's GB 2760. It is quite corrosive, so its presence in food indicates non-compliance. Consumers should not encounter it in compliant foods; if a product lists formic acid, avoid it and report it.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.