Malic acid

Malic acid (CAS 6915-15-7), also known as E296, is a dicarboxylic hydroxy acid used across food, pharmaceutical, and personal care manufacturing. It functions primarily as an acidulant, pH regulator, and flavor enhancer.

This chemical delivers a smooth, tart taste profile preferred over citric acid in many formulations. In food and beverage production, it acidifies confectionery, fruit-flavored drinks, and low-calorie products while extending shelf life.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it to adjust pH in oral solutions, effervescent tablets, and chewable formulations where taste masking is a priority. It is essential for maintaining stability in complex medicinal mixtures.

In personal care, it acts as a buffering agent in leave-on and rinse-off products such as toners, shampoos, and chemical exfoliants. It also functions as a synergist with other preservative systems in cosmetic formulations.

This synergy improves antimicrobial efficacy at controlled pH ranges, ensuring product safety. Malic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule, with granulated forms preferred for direct compression in tablet manufacturing.

Standard grades include food-grade (FCC), pharmaceutical-grade (USP/BP), and technical grade for industrial applications. Both L-malic acid and DL-malic acid are commercially available for various industrial needs.

Buyers specify chirality based on application and regulatory requirements for their specific region. The material is highly soluble and integrates easily into aqueous solutions for consistent manufacturing results.