Ingredient
Malic Acid
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.
Malic Acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used in standard food amounts.
Research indicates that Malic Acid is safe in food quantities, though high doses are rarely studied.
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 analysesEnhances flavor and acts as a preservative to extend shelf life.
from the analysis of Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime FlavoredEnhances flavor and acts as a preservative.
from the analysis of Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato ChipsEnhances flavor profile.
from the analysis of C4 Sport Pre-WorkoutMore 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 PowderMalic acid naturally occurs in fruits like apples and is used to add tartness, with minimal health impact.
from the analysis of Nello Super CalmMalic acid is a natural acidulant that enhances flavor and preserves freshness. It is found naturally in fruits like apples and is generally recognized as safe. Its primary role is to provide tartness and balance flavors.
from the analysis of Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime FlavoredFound in 23 products
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