Lactic acid
Learn what Lactic acid (E270) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Lactic acid?
A natural preservative food additive obtained from starch and molasses through bacterial fermentation. It is used against yeasts and fungi and to enhance the stability of some products, in quantities specified by recipes. It is also used for preparing acidified milk and inhibiting the growth of bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Listeria on beef, pork, or poultry carcasses during slaughter. Foods containing lactic acid should not be given to young children, as they cannot metabolize it. The acceptable daily intake is not limited and does not cause side effects at the doses used in food.
Why is Lactic acid added to food?
Lactic acid (E270) is a preservative commonly found in: Animal products (milk, meat).
Permitted quantity: No acceptable daily intake limit has been set.
Is Lactic acid safe?
Generally recognized as safe
Does not cause side effects at the quantities used in food.
Is Lactic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Lactic acid okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Lactic acid
- Animal products (milk
- meat)
How to spot Lactic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E270
- Lactic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- lactic aeid
- lactlc acid
- lactic acld
- lactic acid
- ldctic acid
- laetic acid
- lactic dcid
- lactie acid
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of lactic acid may cause gastrointestinal irritation, such as nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. • May worsen kidney conditions, especially in individuals with renal insufficiency, as lactic acid can be difficult to eliminate from the body. • People with liver conditions should avoid excessive consumption of lactic acid, as the liver plays a key role in metabolizing it. • Prolonged use or consumption in large quantities can lead to a buildup of lactic acid in the blood (lactic acid), potentially resulting in a condition called lactic acidosis. • May trigger allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals.
Also known as
- lactic aeid
- lactlc acid
- lactic acld
- lactic acid
- ldctic acid
- laetic acid
- lactic dcid
- lactie acid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Lactic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E270 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Lactic acid
- Is Lactic acid safe to eat?
- Does not cause side effects at the quantities used in food.
- Is Lactic acid banned anywhere?
- Lactic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Lactic acid safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Lactic acid on a food label?
- Look for E270, Lactic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: lactic aeid, lactlc acid, lactic acld.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.