Sodium malate

Sodium malate (CAS 676-46-0), also known by its food additive designation E350i, is the disodium salt of malic acid used commercially as a pH buffer and acidulant. It delivers a mild, smooth tartness without the sharp acidity of mineral acids, making it a preferred choice in food and pharmaceutical formulations where precise pH control is required.

In food and beverage manufacturing, sodium malate regulates acidity in fruit-based products, confectionery, and soft drinks where a rounded, fruit-forward flavor profile is desired. Pharmaceutical formulators use it as a buffering agent in oral liquid preparations and effervescent tablets to stabilize active ingredients across a defined pH range.

It functions as a flavor enhancer and acidity moderator in low-sodium seasoning blends and processed foods, where direct acidulants would be too aggressive. In nutraceutical applications, it appears in mineral supplement formulations as a well-tolerated carrier salt. Sodium malate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules.

Food-grade material conforming to E350i specifications is the standard commercial form, with FCC-grade product available for applications requiring documented purity standards. Pharmaceutical-grade supply meeting USP or Ph.Eur. specifications is available for regulated drug product manufacturing and high-purity industrial applications.