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Acetic acid (Acetic acid, ethanoic acid, E260).
Acetic acid is a substance of organic origin, registered as a food additive, which is part of the group of preservatives. In the international classification, it has the index E260. Chemical formula CH3COOH.
General Characteristics of Acetic Acid
Acetic acid belongs to the weak, marginal carboxylic acids, is a clear, colorless liquid, has a sharp acrid smell and a characteristic acidic taste (calorizator). Acetic acid is well soluble in water, ether and alcohols, and mixes with them. The freezing point of acetic acid is 16.5 °C, and solid colorless crystals are formed. Acetates are esters and salts of acetic acid.
Natural acetic acid is obtained during the fermentation of dry wines and beer, synthetic acetic acid is the product of the oxidation of ethanol by certain types of bacteria (the so-called acetic acid fermentation). Acetic acid is generally known as solutions, the most common of which are vinegar (3-9% solution) and acetic essence (70-80% solution).
Benefits and harms of E260
Acetic acid derivatives are involved in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates in the human body. The negative effect of acetic acid depends on the proportions of dilution of the substance with water. With a high concentration of Acetic acid (more than 30%), solutions are considered dangerous to health, chemical burns occur in contact with mucous membranes or skin.
Application of E260
Acetic acid is used in the food industry as an acidity regulator and preservative. It is a part of sauces, mayonnaise, mustard, canned vegetables and some types of canned meat. It is widely used in home canning and baking.
Acetic acid has a wide range of uses-from household applications for descaling and cleaning surfaces, medicine, to the chemical industry, where it is successfully used as a chemical agent and solvent.
Use of E260
On the territory of our country, the use of Acetic acid as a food additive-preservative and acidity regulator is allowed.