Is Cream Of Tartar Safe?
Cream Of Tartar is the additive E336 — potassium salts of tartaric acid from grape processing, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is Cream Of Tartar safe to eat?
E336 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E336.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Cream Of Tartar?
E336 is the E-number for potassium tartrates, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Potassium salts of tartaric acid from grape processing. Like every E-number, E336 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E336 in detail below.
What foods contain Cream Of Tartar?
E336 (Cream Of Tartar) is typically found in:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cream Of Tartar bad for you?
Yes. E336 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Cream Of Tartar vegan?
E336 is vegan. Potassium salts of tartaric acid from grape processing, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Cream Of Tartar halal?
E336 is halal. Potassium salts of tartaric acid from grape processing, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E336 (Potassium Tartrates) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).