E334 · Tartaric acid (L)
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E334?
Tartaric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in grapes and other fruits, and is a byproduct of winemaking. It is used in food as an acidulant to add tartness and stabilize products, and is a key ingredient in baking powder as cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate). L-tartaric acid is the naturally occurring and food-approved form; it is considered safe at typical dietary levels.
Also appears on labels as: Tartaric acid, L-Tartaric acid, L(+)-Tartaric acid, Food grade tartaric acid, E334, E 334, E-334, INS 334, L-tartaric, L(+)-tartaric, Additivo alimentare E334, Additif alimentaire E334.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels.
- Large amounts may have a mild laxative effect in some individuals.
Research behind the verdict
- Re-evaluation of L(+)-Tartaric Acid and Tartrates: Updated Safety Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, European Food Safety Authority Journal (2024). The European Food Safety Authority conducted a comprehensive re-evaluation of tartaric acid (E334) and its salts in 2024. The assessment reviewed all available toxicological data and exposure estimates. The panel concluded that tartaric acid is safe for use as a food additive at current levels of consumption. No adverse effects were identified in chronic toxicity studies. The natural occurrence of tartaric acid in grapes and other fruits supports its safety profile. Updated acceptable daily intake levels confirmed the continued safe use of this additive in food products.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E334 safe?
Our overall verdict for E334 (Tartaric acid (L)) 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 E334 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Tartaric acid (L) — 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 E334 and why is it used?
Tartaric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in grapes and other fruits, and is a byproduct of winemaking. It is used in food as an acidulant to add tartness and stabilize products, and is a key ingredient in baking powder as cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate). L-tartaric acid is the naturally occurring and food-approved form; it is considered safe at typical dietary levels.
Does E334 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Tartaric acid (L).
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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.