Guanylic acid (E626) – flavor and aroma enhancer.
It is a natural acid, present in RNA, one of the molecules that carry the genetic code in the cell. It is a part of the cells of all living organisms. In industry, it is made from yeast extract or sardines.
Gualic acid and guanylates (E627, E628, E629) do not have their own flavor, but they significantly enhance many other odors, thereby reducing the amount of salt added to the product.
It is used in many products. The daily norm is not defined. Guanylates should not be added to products for children under 12 weeks of age. Not recommended for people with asthma. Since guanylates are processed into purines, they are contraindicated in people with gout. However, the concentrations used in the products are usually so low that side effects should not be expected.
Guanylic acid and guanylates are usually extracted from yeast, but sometimes from fish. Therefore, they may not be suitable for eating by vegetarians.