E336 · Monopotassium tartrate, dipotassium tartrate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E336?
Monopotassium tartrate (cream of tartar) and dipotassium tartrate are potassium salts of tartaric acid used in food as acidity regulators, stabilizers, and raising-agent components (e.g. in baking powder). They help control pH and texture in baked goods, confectionery, and processed foods. They are considered safe food additives at normal use levels.
Also appears on labels as: Monopotassium tartrate, Dipotassium tartrate, Potassium hydrogen tartrate, Potassium bitartrate, Potassium acid tartrate, Cream of tartar, Potassium tartrate, Potassium salts of tartaric acid, KHC4H4O6, K2C4H4O6, E336, E 336.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Provides a small amount of dietary potassium; individuals with kidney disease who must limit potassium intake should be mindful of cumulative sources.
Research behind the verdict
- Potassium Tartrates Safety Evaluation: Cream of Tartar and Related Compounds — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings, EFSA Journal - Tartrates Safety Assessment (2020). A detailed safety assessment of monopotassium and dipotassium tartrate (E336), commonly known as cream of tartar, examining their use as acidulants and stabilizers in food products. The research confirmed that these compounds, naturally occurring in grapes and widely used in baking, present no safety concerns at approved usage levels. The study noted their long history of safe use and excellent toxicological profile. The assessment supports their continued use in food applications with established safety margins.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E336 safe?
Our overall verdict for E336 (Monopotassium tartrate, dipotassium tartrate) 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 E336 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Monopotassium tartrate, dipotassium tartrate — 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 E336 and why is it used?
Monopotassium tartrate (cream of tartar) and dipotassium tartrate are potassium salts of tartaric acid used in food as acidity regulators, stabilizers, and raising-agent components (e.g. in baking powder). They help control pH and texture in baked goods, confectionery, and processed foods. They are considered safe food additives at normal use levels.
Does E336 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Monopotassium tartrate, dipotassium tartrate.
Watch E336
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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.