Tartaric acid
Natural grape acid.
- Category
- Antioxidants, Sequestrants
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A salt of tartaric acid used to add a sharp, sour taste or act as a raising agent in baking.
How it is used in food
Provides a unique, sharp fruit tartness and stabilizes the vibrant colors of fruits and juices.
Commonly found in- Baking powder
- Wine
- Fruit juices
- Sweets
Health and safety
Safe. Absorbed poorly by the intestines and largely excreted in urine.
Evaluated by EFSA and confirmed safe for use in food at authorized levels.
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
- E334
Worth knowing
Potassium bitartrate (E336) is commonly sold in grocery stores as "Cream of Tartar" and is essential for stabilizing whipped egg whites for meringues.
Conclusion
You do not need to avoid tartaric acid in your food. Extracted naturally from winemaking residue, this grape acid is poorly absorbed by your intestines and safely excreted in urine. EFSA confirms it is safe for delivering sharp fruit tartness and stabilizing vibrant colors in juices, sweets, and baking powders.
Is it in what you are buying?
ScanWise reads the barcode and tells you which additives a product actually contains, and what they do to its score.
Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
← All additives