Iron (III) meso-Tartrate
A highly specific additive that prevents salt from caking in humid environments.
- Category
- Anti-caking agents
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
An iron salt of tartaric acid used specifically as an anti-caking agent for salt.
How it is used in food
Prevents table salt from clumping in humid conditions by interfering with the growth of interlocking salt crystals, keeping it free-flowing without the ferrocyanide-based agents used previously.
Commonly found in- Table salt
Health and safety
Approved by EFSA as safe for use in salt up to specific limits.
EFSA's 2015 scientific opinion concluded that iron(III) meso-tartrate is of no safety concern at the proposed use level of 106 mg/kg in salt. The iron is barely absorbed in this form, and tartrate is a well-characterised, naturally occurring food acid component.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Permitted | Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E534
Worth knowing
It is one of the newest additives on the EU list, authorised in 2015 specifically as a modern alternative to the long-established ferrocyanide anti-caking agents (E535–E538) in salt.
Conclusion
A highly specific additive that prevents salt from caking in humid environments.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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