Acidulant

L+ Tartaric Acid (E334)

L+ Tartaric Acid is a naturally occurring food acidulant known for its distinctive sharp tartness, widely used in winemaking, confectionery and effervescent formulations.

Acidulant E334
L+ Tartaric Acid crystals in a glass bowl, close-up macro shot
Quick Overview
CategoryAcidulant
E NumberE334
OriginNaturally occurring (commonly derived from grapes)
Primary FunctionsAcidification, Flavour Enhancement, pH Control
Typical IndustriesWine & Beverage, Confectionery, Bakery, Effervescent Products
Available FormsPowder, Crystalline

L+ Tartaric Acid is an organic acid that occurs naturally in a number of fruits, most notably grapes, and has long been associated with winemaking.

It is valued in food manufacturing for its distinctive sharp, tart flavour profile, which is generally perceived as more pronounced than that of citric or malic acid.

Beyond acidification, its reactivity with bicarbonate makes it a common component in effervescent and leavening systems.

Key Functional Benefits

Why formulators choose L+ Tartaric Acid

Distinctive Tart Flavour

Provides a sharp, pronounced sourness that is sensorially distinct from other common food acids.

Winemaking Compatibility

Widely recognised and used for acidity adjustment in wine and fermented beverage production.

Effervescent Reactivity

Reacts readily with bicarbonate, supporting effervescent tablet and powder formulations.

Leavening Support

Can contribute to leavening performance in selected baking applications.

Flavour Enhancement

Supports flavour perception in confectionery and beverage applications requiring a sharp acid note.

Formulation Versatility

Can be used alone or combined with other acidulants to achieve a target sourness and flavour profile.

Typical Applications

Where L+ Tartaric Acid performs best

Wine & Fermented Beverages

Used for acidity correction and stabilisation in wine production, subject to applicable regulations.

Confectionery

Provides a sharp sour note in hard candy, sour sweets and coated confectionery.

Effervescent Tablets & Powders

A common acid component in effervescent systems that react with bicarbonate.

Baking Powder Systems

Can be evaluated as part of leavening acid blends.

Beverages

Contributes tartness in selected juice-based and flavoured beverage formulations.

Jams & Preserves

May support flavour balance and acidity in selected fruit preserve applications.

Technical Profile

Characteristics & available grades

Technical Characteristics

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

  • Particle size and solubility
  • Acid strength and flavour intensity
  • Reactivity with bicarbonate and other leavening agents
  • Compatibility with other acidulants
  • Moisture sensitivity
  • Processing and storage conditions

Detailed specifications are available upon request.

Available Grades

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

  • Standard Food Grade Powder
  • Crystalline 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

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Related Knowledge

Learn more in the Knowledge Center

Application Guides

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Technical Articles

Common Food Formulation Challenges

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is L+ Tartaric Acid used for?
It is used to provide acidity and a distinctive tart flavour in wine, confectionery, effervescent products and selected bakery applications.
Why is Tartaric Acid associated with wine?
It occurs naturally in grapes and has long been used in winemaking for acidity adjustment and stabilisation.
How does it differ from Citric or Malic Acid?
L+ Tartaric Acid generally provides a sharper, more pronounced tartness compared with the smoother sourness of citric or malic acid.
Is it suitable for effervescent products?
Yes. Its reactivity with bicarbonate makes it a commonly evaluated acid for effervescent tablet and powder systems.
How do I select the right grade?
Grade selection depends on particle size, solubility requirements, the intended application and desired flavour intensity. Our technical team can help with initial evaluation.

Looking for a Distinctive Acidulant Solution?

Whether you are developing wine, confectionery or effervescent products, our team can help evaluate whether L+ Tartaric Acid fits your formulation and process requirements.