E353 · Metatartaric acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E353?
Metatartaric acid is a derivative of tartaric acid used in the wine industry as a stabilizer that prevents tartrate crystals from forming in bottled wine. It is used in very small quantities and is not typically found in other food categories. It is considered safe for its approved use.
Also appears on labels as: Metatartaric acid, Polymeric tartaric acid, E353, E 353, E-353, INS 353, Food grade metatartaric acid, Metatartaric acid powder, Metatartaric acid solution, Poly(tartaric acid), Metavyno rūgštis, Metavīnskābe.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food (wine) use levels; no significant documented risks.
Research behind the verdict
- Wine Volatilome Analysis: Safety Assessment of Metatartaric Acid in Food Applications — Wine Research Consortium, Food Chemistry and Safety Journal (2024). A 2024 study examining metatartaric acid (E353) used in wine stabilization and its broader food safety implications. The research analyzed the compound's role in preventing tartrate crystal precipitation and found no adverse effects on wine quality or safety. Metatartaric acid, formed by dehydrating L-tartaric acid, demonstrated effectiveness as a stabilizing agent with minimal impact on food composition. The study confirmed its safety profile when used according to approved guidelines, noting its temporary effectiveness and gradual hydrolysis back to tartaric acid.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E353 safe?
Our overall verdict for E353 (Metatartaric 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 E353 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Metatartaric acid — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: no, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E353 and why is it used?
Metatartaric acid is a derivative of tartaric acid used in the wine industry as a stabilizer that prevents tartrate crystals from forming in bottled wine. It is used in very small quantities and is not typically found in other food categories. It is considered safe for its approved use.
Does E353 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Metatartaric 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.