Malic Acid (E 296)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Malic acid (E 296) is the sharp acid of apples and many other fruits. The DL form used commercially is not the form found in fruit; it is made from fumaric or maleic acid.

What the evidence review says

Malic acid is the tart acid found in apples. We found no notable concern for the general population. Regulators do not extend its acceptable intake to the D(−) form in very young infants, and the FDA GRAS affirmation excludes baby food.

No notable concern for the general population. Both enantiomers are treated as readily metabolized. The JECFA group ADI is not applied to D(−)-malic acid in very young infants, and the FDA GRAS affirmation excludes baby food.

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This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.