Succinic acid
Learn what Succinic acid (E636) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Succinic acid?
Food additive used as an acidity regulator and flavoring agent. It is naturally found in fruits, vegetables, and wine. For industrial use, it is obtained from acetic acid. It is used in desserts, soups, broths, powders for homemade soft drinks, as well as in dietary supplements.
Why is Succinic acid added to food?
Succinic acid (E636) is a acidity regulator commonly found in: Instant soup powders, flavored drink powders.
Permitted quantity: No established maximum daily dose.
Is Succinic acid safe?
Low concern
Does not cause adverse effects.
Is Succinic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Succinic acid okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Succinic acid
- Instant soup powders
- flavored drink powders
How to spot Succinic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E636
- Succinic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- $uccinic acid
- succlnic acid
- succinic aeid
- succinic acld
- suecinic acid
- succinlc acid
- succinic dcid
- succinic acid
- suceinic acid
- succinie acid
Better alternatives
• Not recommended for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to succinic acid or similar compounds. • People with gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastric ulcers or colitis, should avoid excessive consumption, as it may irritate the stomach lining. • Excessive use may lead to imbalances in internal acidity and digestive discomfort.
Also known as
- $uccinic acid
- succlnic acid
- succinic aeid
- succinic acld
- suecinic acid
- succinlc acid
- succinic dcid
- succinic acid
- suceinic acid
- succinie acid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Succinic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E636 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Succinic acid
- Is Succinic acid safe to eat?
- Does not cause adverse effects.
- Is Succinic acid banned anywhere?
- Succinic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Succinic acid safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Succinic acid on a food label?
- Look for E636, Succinic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: $uccinic acid, succlnic acid, succinic aeid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.