Is Tartaric Acid Safe?
Tartaric Acid is the additive E334 — extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is Tartaric Acid safe to eat?
E334 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 E334.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Tartaric Acid?
E334 is the E-number for tartaric acid, 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. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E334 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 E334 in detail below.
What foods contain Tartaric Acid?
E334 (Tartaric Acid) is typically found in:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tartaric Acid bad for you?
Yes. E334 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Tartaric Acid vegan?
E334 is vegan. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Tartaric Acid halal?
E334 is halal. Extracted from grape by-products of winemaking or produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E334 (Tartaric Acid) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).