Ingredient · Updated

Malic Acid

Positive in 1 product Neutral in 30

Found in 31 productsSee all

What is Malic Acid?

Malic Acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many fruits and vegetables, particularly apples. It is produced commercially by the hydration of maleic anhydride.

This acid is used as a food additive to enhance flavor and give a tart taste in beverages, candies, and other food products. The health evidence shows it is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) when used in appropriate amounts in food products.

When you see Malic Acid on a label, it's typically there to improve flavor. There's no significant evidence that it poses health risks when consumed in food-level quantities.

Commonly found in: baked goods, candies, beverages, jams, jellies, frozen desserts

Benefits

  • Improves the tart flavor in foods and drinks, enhancing taste.
  • Naturally occurring and generally recognized as safe by major health authorities.
FDA

Malic Acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in standard food amounts.

Research

Research indicates that Malic Acid is safe in food quantities, though high doses are rarely studied.

Vegan

Malic Acid is derived from non-animal sources and is considered vegan-friendly.

Sources: Food Additive Status List

Scout's take

Industrial acidulant for tartness.

The case for

Enhances flavor and may mildly support cellular energy production.

from the analysis of RAW Nutrition Essential Pre-Workout · echoed in 2 other analyses

Enhances flavor and provides a tart taste without adding calories.

from the analysis of BODYARMOR LYTE Blueberry Pomegranate Sports Drink · echoed in 2 other analyses

Enhances flavor and acidity without significant health impacts.

from the analysis of OLIPOP Crisp Apple Prebiotic Soda - 12 fl oz Can · echoed in 1 other analysis

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative to extend shelf life.

from the analysis of Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime Flavored

Enhances flavor and supports energy production in the body.

from the analysis of goli NUTRITION Apple Cider Vinegar Vegan Gummies

More from Scout's analyses

Malic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in fruits. At 2g, it supports the Krebs cycle for cellular energy production and enhances flavor.

from the analysis of Santa Cruz Paleo Pre Workout Powder

Malic acid is a natural acid found in fruits, used to enhance flavor and acidity in food products. It is generally recognized as safe and contributes to the tartness of the product. While it enhances flavor, it does not provide nutritional benefits.

from the analysis of goli NUTRITION Magnesium Sugar Free Dietary Supplement Vegan Gummies

All 31 products with Malic Acid

+ 7 more products in the Scout app

Where Malic Acid shows up

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