E296 · Malic acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E296?
Malic acid (E296) is a naturally occurring acid found in apples and many other fruits, giving them their tart flavor. It is used in food and drinks as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer, particularly in candies, soft drinks, and sour snacks. Malic acid is also used in some skincare products for its mild exfoliating properties.
Also appears on labels as: Malic acid, E296, E 296, E-296, Hydroxybutanedioic acid, DL-Malic acid, L-Malic acid, D-Malic acid, 2-Hydroxysuccinic acid, Apple acid, Food acid E296, Acidity regulator E296.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E296 safe?
Our overall verdict for E296 (Malic acid) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E296 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Malic acid — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E296 and why is it used?
Malic acid (E296) is a naturally occurring acid found in apples and many other fruits, giving them their tart flavor. It is used in food and drinks as an acidity regulator and flavor enhancer, particularly in candies, soft drinks, and sour snacks. Malic acid is also used in some skincare products for its mild exfoliating properties.
Does E296 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Malic acid.
Watch E296
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.