Contents
Fumaric acid (Fumaric acid, E297)
Fumaric acid is an organic substance with the chemical formula HO2CCH=CHCO2H. Fumaric acid is registered as a food additive-preservative, has the properties of an acidity regulator and an acidifier (calorizator). In the international classification of food additives, fumaric acid is assigned the index E297.
General Characteristics of Fumaric Acid
Fumaric acid is a white, odorless, crystalline powder with the characteristic pungent taste of sour fruits. The substance is poorly soluble in water, non-toxic. Fumaric acid is obtained in the process of synthesis of maleic acid, which is more accessible. In nature, fumaric acid is found in almost all living cells, many lichens, under the influence of sunlight, it is produced by the human skin.
Benefits and harms of E297
Fumaric acid has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, no scientifically confirmed data have been found on the harm of E297 to the human body.
Application of Fumaric Acid
In the food industry, E297 is used in the production of caramel, beverages, pastries, fruit marmalade. Sometimes the addition of E297 is substituted for tartaric acid. In addition to the food industry, fumaric acid is used in medicine as an effective treatment for psoriasis, in the production of dandruff shampoos, as a raw material for the production of malic and succinic acids. In the treatment of psoriasis, fumaric acid esters are used in a daily dose of 60-105 mg and increasing to 1300 mg per day.
Use of E297
On the territory of tour country, it is allowed to use E297 Fumaric acid as a food additive-an acidifier that is harmless to health.