E297 · Fumaric acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E297?
Fumaric acid (E297) is an organic acid used in food as an acidity regulator and flavoring agent, particularly in candies, gelatin desserts, and baking powders, where it also helps extend shelf life. It occurs naturally in some plants and is an intermediate in the body's own energy-producing citric acid cycle. Fumaric acid is more sour than citric acid, so smaller amounts are typically used.
Also appears on labels as: E297, E 297, E-297, Fumaric acid, Trans-butenedioic acid, 2-Butenedioic acid, Allomaleic acid, Food acid E297, Acidity regulator E297, Fumarate, Fumaric food additive, Food additive E297.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Large single doses have occasionally been linked to gastrointestinal irritation, though this is uncommon at normal food-additive amounts.
Frequently asked questions
Is E297 safe?
Our overall verdict for E297 (Fumaric 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 E297 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Fumaric 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 E297 and why is it used?
Fumaric acid (E297) is an organic acid used in food as an acidity regulator and flavoring agent, particularly in candies, gelatin desserts, and baking powders, where it also helps extend shelf life. It occurs naturally in some plants and is an intermediate in the body's own energy-producing citric acid cycle. Fumaric acid is more sour than citric acid, so smaller amounts are typically used.
Does E297 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Fumaric acid.
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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.