Fumaric acid
Learn what Fumaric acid (E297) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Fumaric acid?
Fumaric acid is a food additive used as an acidity regulator and stabilizer. It can be obtained from malic acid through heating, from catalytic oxidation of benzene, or by bacterial fermentation of glucose. Naturally, it is found in some plants and plays a crucial role in cellular respiration in both animal and plant tissues. It is used in wines, fine confectionery and pastry products, jelly-like desserts, instant tea powders, fruit-flavored drinks, and glazes for pastries.
Why is Fumaric acid added to food?
Fumaric acid (E297) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Wines, fine confectionery products, teas.
Permitted quantity: There is no limit to the recommended daily dosage.
Is Fumaric acid safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
Is Fumaric acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Fumaric acid
- Wines
- fine confectionery products
- teas
How to spot Fumaric acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E297
- Fumaric acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- fumaric acld
- fumaric dcid
- fumarie acid
- iumaric acid
- fumaric acid
- fumarlc acid
- tumaric acid
- fumdric acid
- fumaric aeid
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of fumaric acid may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. • It can trigger allergic reactions, including rashes, itching, or swelling in individuals sensitive to fumaric acid. • People with kidney or liver conditions should avoid excessive consumption as it may place additional strain on these organs. • Large doses may interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, such as B vitamins, affecting nutritional balance. • Long-term use of high amounts of fumaric acid may lead to electrolyte imbalances and metabolic health issues.
Also known as
- fumaric acld
- fumaric dcid
- fumarie acid
- iumaric acid
- fumaric acid
- fumarlc acid
- tumaric acid
- fumdric acid
- fumaric aeid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Fumaric acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E297 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Fumaric acid
- Is Fumaric acid safe to eat?
- No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
- Is Fumaric acid banned anywhere?
- Fumaric acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Fumaric acid on a food label?
- Look for E297, Fumaric acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: fumaric acld, fumaric dcid, fumarie acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.