E296 - MALIC ACID

Malic acid is an organic compound with the molecular formula C4H6O5. It contributes to the pleasantly sour taste of fruits and is used as a food additive. Malic acid has two stereoisomeric forms (L- and D-enantiomers), although only the L-isomer exists naturally. Malic acid is highly hygroscopic, soluble in water and ethanol. It has a special pleasant acidity.

Applications:

Food and Beverage Industry:

• Malic acid's taste is similar to that of natural tart apples, compared to citric acid. It is widely used in premium beverages, food, and other industries for its acidity, flavor, sweetness, and long-lasting characteristics.
• As an intermediate in the citric acid cycle, malic acid can participate in the fermentation process of microorganisms and be used as a carbon source for microbial growth. It can be used in food fermentation agents, such as yeast for fermented milk.

Food Production:

• Malic acid can produce a pectin gel effect and is used in the production of fruit cakes, purees, jams, jellies, etc.
• It can be used as a food preservative to extend shelf life.
• Malic acid can be employed in salty foods to reduce the amount of salt.

Deodorant and Cosmetic Industry:

• Malic acid can be used as a deodorant to eliminate fish and body odors.
• In cosmetics, it can be used to gently remove old skin debris and improve skin metabolism.

Bakery and Cooking:

• Malic acid has a strengthening effect on utensils. It can increase gluten in protein disulfide groups, forming larger protein molecules to create a macromolecular network structure, improving the elasticity and toughness of the dough.
• It can be used in baked goods to reduce the amount of salt.

Color Retention and Antioxidant:

• Malic acid serves as a natural color-retaining agent for sherbet.
• It has good antioxidant capacity, delaying oxidation, and extending the shelf life while maintaining the color, flavor, and nutritional value of food. 

Pharmaceutical and Health Products:

• Used in pharmaceutical formulations, tablets, syrups, and amino acids to enhance amino acid absorption.
• Used in the treatment of liver diseases, anemia, low immunity, uremia, hypertension, liver failure, and other conditions, reducing the toxic effects of anticancer drugs on normal cells.

Industrial Applications:

• Malic acid can be used in detergents, synthetic materials, and fluorescent brightening agents.
• Added to shellac or other varnishes to prevent paint crust.

Health and Wellness Products:

• Applied in health and wellness products.