Food-Info.net> E-numbers > E300-400

E336 Potassium tartarates

E336 (i) Monopotassium tartarate
E336 (ii) Dipotassium tartarate

Origin:
Potassium salts of tartaric acid, a natural acid present in many fruits, especially grapes. Commercially prepared from waste products of the wine industry (grape skins).

Function & characteristics:
Potassium tartarate is an acidity regulator and anti-oxidant. Also used in producing baking powder and as emulsifier.

Products:
Many products, mainly confectionery and bakery products.

Acceptable Daily Intake:
Up to 30 mg/kg body weight.

Side effects:
It is not metabolised in the body; thus, it is excreted in the urine without side effects.

Dietary restrictions:
Tartaric acid and tartarates can normally be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.