E297 - Fumaric Acid

Victoria Aly Author: Victoria Aly Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022
E297 - Fumaric Acid

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)



The food additive E 297 is colorless or white crystals, has no odor and the taste is sharply sour. In food production it is used as an acid regulator

Characteristics of fumaric acid

The food additive E 297 (fumaric acid)  is a colorless or white crystal, has no odor and a sharp sour taste. In food production it is used as an acidity regulator. The industrial compound of E 297 takes place with the participation of maleic acid and catalysts in aqueous solutions. The supplement is contained in every living organism; naturally found in lichens, Irish moss and other similar plants. Human skin produces fumaric acid under the influence of sunlight.

Use of fumaric acid

First of all, the additive E 297 is used as an acidity regulator in the preparation of beverages, candies and confectionery, it is rarely used instead of citric or tartaric acids. Fumaric acid can be found in the composition of canned fruits, fruit marmalades; can be the basis for the preparation of powders for making fruit drinks and jellies. Another area of ​​application is the use of the acid to produce succinic or malic acids; in cosmetics - in the composition of personal hygiene products.

Food additive E 297 is approved for use in the food industry in all countries except Ukraine.

Impact on humans

Fumaric acid was used as an ingredient in products to treat psoriasis, but the drugs were later discontinued due to side effects on the body. The intake of small amounts of the supplement through food does not adversely affect the person, but regular consumption of such foods is not recommended, because at high concentrations (large amounts are present in sweeteners) the liver is damaged.

Related Articles

About | Privacy | Marketing | Cookies | Contact us

All rights reserved © ThisNutrition 2018-2026

Medical Disclaimer: All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

Affiliate Disclosure: Please note that each post may contain affiliate and/or referral links, in which I receive a very small commission for referring readers to these companies.