E349 – Ammonium malate
Acidity regulatorDescription
White crystalline powder or granules
Notes
Ammonium malate is created by combining malic acid—the natural acid that gives green apples their tart taste—with ammonia or ammonium compounds. Malic acid can be extracted from fruits like apples, cherries, and grapes, or it can be produced synthetically through fermentation. When these two components are combined, they form white crystals that dissolve easily in water. This additive works as an acidity regulator, which means it helps control the pH level (how acidic or basic) of foods to improve taste, texture, and preservation. You'll typically find it in processed foods, beverages, candies, and baked goods where manufacturers need to fine-tune the acidity to achieve the right flavor balance or to help other ingredients work properly. Ammonium malate is suitable for vegetarians and vegans since it doesn't involve any animal-derived ingredients. The ammonia component might sound concerning, but it's present in very small amounts and is the same type of nitrogen compound found naturally in many foods. While it's recognized as safe by food authorities, some people prefer to limit their intake of synthetic acidity regulators. The additive is generally considered acceptable under most religious dietary laws since it doesn't contain any prohibited substances.