L-tartaric acid
Learn what L-tartaric acid (E334) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is L-tartaric acid?
A food additive in the category of acidity regulators, found naturally in fruits, especially in grape must. The form used in the food industry, as well as in pharmaceuticals and textiles (for dyeing fabrics), is the crystallized form, commonly known as 'cream of tartar', which is chemically obtained.
Why is L-tartaric acid added to food?
L-tartaric acid (E334) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Chewing gum, creams, sweets.
Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 30 mg/kg body weight.
Is L-tartaric acid safe?
Generally recognized as safe
Large and repeated doses can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, hyperacidity, nausea, vomiting, oral and kidney issues, respiratory disorders, convulsions, drowsiness, and muscle pain. Tartaric acid is toxic to the muscular system, potentially leading to paralysis, although the quantities used in food are not capable of causing such effects.
Is L-tartaric acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is L-tartaric acid okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain L-tartaric acid
- Chewing gum
- creams
- sweets
How to spot L-tartaric acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E334
- L-tartaric acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- l-tartaric acld
- l-tartaric aeid
- l-tartaric acid
- l-tartaric dcid
- l-tdrtaric acid
- l-tartarie acid
- l-tartdric acid
- l-tartarlc acid
Better alternatives
• May cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, and gastric hyperacidity, in large and repeated doses. • L-Tartaric acid is toxic to the muscular system, and in very large doses, it can cause muscle pain or even paralysis, though the amounts used in food are considered safe. • Excessive consumption may lead to respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing or discomfort. • High doses may affect kidney function, leading to kidney-related health problems. • Overdose may result in neurological symptoms, such as seizures, drowsiness, and other manifestations. • May contribute to oral irritation or discomfort when consumed in excess.
Also known as
- l-tartaric acld
- l-tartaric aeid
- l-tartaric acid
- l-tartaric dcid
- l-tdrtaric acid
- l-tartarie acid
- l-tartdric acid
- l-tartarlc acid
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Frequently asked questions about L-tartaric acid
- Is L-tartaric acid safe to eat?
- Large and repeated doses can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, hyperacidity, nausea, vomiting, oral and kidney issues, respiratory disorders, convulsions, drowsiness, and muscle pain. Tartaric acid is toxic to the muscular system, potentially leading to paralysis, although the quantities used in food are not capable of causing such effects.
- Is L-tartaric acid banned anywhere?
- L-tartaric acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is L-tartaric acid safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot L-tartaric acid on a food label?
- Look for E334, L-tartaric acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: l-tartaric acld, l-tartaric aeid, l-tartaric acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.