metatartaric acid
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 偏酒石酸 |
| English name | metatartaric acid |
| INS/E number | INS 353 |
| Functional class | Food acid, Emulsifier |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
metatartaric acid (INS 353) is a Acidity regulator, Emulsifier food additive. Used to regulate or maintain acidity (pH), affecting flavour, colour and stability.Allows immiscible liquids (e.g. oil and water) to form a stable uniform system, improving texture.
Source
Natural：Mostly organic acids naturally present in foods (e.g. citric, malic, lactic acid).Some derive from natural raw materials (e.g. soy lecithin, egg-yolk phospholipids).
Industrial：Their salts (e.g. sodium citrate, phosphates) are made by neutralisation.Many are made by esterifying glycerol with fatty acids or further derivatisation (e.g. monoglycerides, spans, tweens).
Why is it used?
- Adjust pH
- Improve flavour
- Enhance preservation and colour stability
- Stabilise oil-water emulsions
- Improve mouthfeel and structure
- Prevent separation
Common Foods
- Beverages
- Confectionery
- Dairy
- Canned foods
- Bakery
- Margarine
- Ice cream
- Chocolate
- Sauces
Safety
Mostly organic acids naturally present in foods; safe within permitted use.Largely metabolised in the gut; generally safe within permitted use; JECFA sets ADI where applicable.
Metabolism：Metabolic pathways vary by substance; generally the material is metabolised or excreted normally.
Concerns：
- Use within permitted levels
- Sensitive individuals should check the ingredient list
Usage Standard
China：依据 GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》确定使用范围与最大使用量；具体限值随食品类别而异。
International：
- China GB 2760 National Food Safety Standard for Uses of Food Additives：https://www.cfsa.net.cn/
- Codex GSFA General Standard for Food Additives：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/codex-alimentarius/en/
- FAO/WHO JECFA (Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives)：https://www.fao.org/food-safety/scientific-advice/jecfa/en/
- US FDA Substances Added to Food：https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/substances-added-food-previously-food-additive-status-list
- EU EFSA Food Additives：https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/food-additives
In a nutshell
metatartaric acid is a Acidity regulator, Emulsifier, safe for use in food production within permitted limits.
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.