Acidulant

Fumaric Acid (E297)

Fumaric Acid is an efficient food-grade acidulant valued for its strong sourness at low usage levels, low hygroscopicity and stability in dry and heat-processed applications.

Acidulant E297
Fumaric Acid crystals in a glass bowl, close-up macro shot
Quick Overview
CategoryAcidulant
E NumberE297
Primary FunctionsAcidification, pH Control, Shelf-Life Support
Typical IndustriesBeverage, Bakery, Confectionery, Powdered Mixes
Available FormsPowder, Granular

Fumaric Acid is an organic acid that occurs naturally in some fruits and fungi, and is produced for food use through a controlled manufacturing process.

Compared with other common food acids, it delivers a stronger sour taste at lower use levels, and its low water solubility and low hygroscopicity make it particularly stable in dry, powdered and heat-processed applications.

These characteristics make it a practical choice where storage stability, dosing efficiency or resistance to moisture pickup are important formulation considerations.

Key Functional Benefits

Why formulators choose Fumaric Acid

Strong Acidifying Power

Delivers a pronounced sour taste at lower inclusion levels than many other common food acids.

Low Hygroscopicity

Absorbs relatively little moisture, helping powdered and dry-blended products remain free-flowing in storage.

Heat and Storage Stability

Remains stable under typical processing temperatures and extended storage conditions.

Dosing Efficiency

Its strength can allow lower usage levels to achieve a target acidity.

Compatibility with Dry Systems

Well suited to powdered beverages, dry mixes and baking applications where moisture control matters.

Consistent Performance

Supports reproducible acidity across production batches when used at a confirmed inclusion level.

Typical Applications

Where Fumaric Acid performs best

Powdered Beverages

Widely used in powdered drink mixes and ready-to-mix beverage systems where low hygroscopicity supports shelf stability.

Baking Powder & Leavening Systems

Can react with bicarbonate to support leavening performance in baked goods.

Gelatin Desserts

Contributes tartness and acidity in gelatin-based dessert formulations.

Pie & Fruit Fillings

Supports flavour balance and acidity in fruit-based fillings.

Confectionery

Used where a pronounced sour profile is desired at controlled usage levels.

Wine & Fermented Beverages

May be evaluated for acidity adjustment, subject to applicable regulatory permissions.

Technical Profile

Characteristics & available grades

Technical Characteristics

Rather than focusing on fixed specification values, Fumaric Acid is generally selected based on its functional performance within a formulation. Typical considerations include:

  • Particle size and solubility
  • Acid strength relative to formulation target
  • Dissolution rate
  • Moisture sensitivity of the finished product
  • Compatibility with other acids and leavening agents
  • Processing temperature and storage conditions

Detailed specifications are available upon request.

Available Grades

Depending on the application, Fumaric Acid is available in different grades designed for specific functional requirements. Typical examples include:

  • Standard Food Grade Powder
  • Granular Grades
  • Fine Powder Grades
  • Application-Specific Options

The most suitable grade depends on the formulation and manufacturing process.

Documentation on Request

Technical Documentation

Technical documents are available upon request, including:

  • Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
  • Product Specification
  • Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS)
  • Certificate of Analysis (CoA)*
  • Non-GMO Statement*
  • Halal Certificate*
  • Kosher Certificate*

*Availability depends on the selected grade and manufacturer.

Request Technical Documents
Why EMTA Kimya

More than an ingredient supplier

Choosing the right ingredient involves more than selecting a product. At EMTA Kimya, we support food manufacturers with:

Reliable Global Sourcing

A vetted international supplier network that keeps quality and supply consistent.

Technical Product Guidance

Support in identifying the ingredient grade best suited to your formulation.

Comprehensive Documentation

Technical documentation shared on request to support your evaluation process.

Flexible Supply Solutions

Sourcing arrangements adapted to your volume and production schedule.

Responsive Commercial Support

A team that responds quickly when you're evaluating or placing an order.

Related Products

Other ingredients to consider

Related Knowledge

Learn more in the Knowledge Center

Application Guides

How to Choose the Right Acidulant

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Technical Articles

Common Food Formulation Challenges

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fumaric Acid used for?
Fumaric Acid is used to provide acidity and pH control in beverages, baked goods, gelatin desserts and other food applications, particularly where low moisture uptake or dosing efficiency is important.
How does it differ from Citric Acid?
Fumaric Acid generally provides stronger sourness at lower use levels and has lower water solubility and hygroscopicity than Citric Acid, making it well suited to dry and powdered applications.
Is Fumaric Acid suitable for powdered beverage mixes?
Yes. Its low hygroscopicity helps powdered products remain free-flowing and stable during storage.
Can Fumaric Acid be used in baking?
It is commonly evaluated for baking powder and leavening systems, where it can react with bicarbonate.
How do I determine the right usage level?
Usage level depends on the desired acidity, formulation and process. Our technical team can help identify an appropriate starting point for evaluation.

Looking for an Efficient Acidulant Solution?

Whether you are developing powdered beverages, baked goods or confectionery, our team can help evaluate whether Fumaric Acid fits your formulation and process requirements.