Comparing E296 - Malic acid vs E349 - ammonium malate

Is malic acid bad for you?

No—at normal food levels it’s considered safe (GRAS in the U.S. and authorized in the EU); very high intakes or very sour products can irritate the mouth or stomach.

Is malic acid gluten free?

Yes. Malic acid is inherently gluten-free; check the overall product for other gluten-containing ingredients.

What is malic acid used for?

It’s an acidulant that provides a tart, apple-like sourness and adjusts pH in foods and drinks, commonly in beverages, candies, and fruit preparations.

Is malic acid bad for your teeth?

Acids like malic acid can contribute to enamel erosion with frequent exposure (e.g., sour candies, acidic drinks); limiting contact time and rinsing with water can help.

Is malic acid vegan?

Yes—malic acid is typically vegan, made synthetically or by microbial fermentation without animal-derived inputs, though other ingredients in a product may not be.