Maleic acid is not allowed to add in food

Maleic acid is an organic compound that is a dicarboxylic acid, a molecule with two carboxyl groups. It has the Molecular Formula:C4H4O4 and Molecular Weight:116.07. It is stable,combustible and incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, bases. The CAS Registry Number is 110-16-7. It is mainly used as a precursor to fumaric acid, and relative to its parent maleic anhydride, maleic acid has few applications.

Maleic acid is not very important economically, since the anhydride is easier to use. It is employed in the manufacture of phthalic-type alkyd and polyester resins, surface coatings, copolymers, plasticizers, lubricant additives and agricultural chemicals; in adhesives and sealants; as a preservative for oils and fats; organic synthesis; dyeing and finishing wool, cotton and silk; and preparing the maleate salts of antihistamines and similar drugs.

Maleic acid(CAS NO:110-16-7) is not a kind of food additives, but some unscrupulous manufacturers ued Maleic acid in some food. Here is a case about Maleic acid used as food additive in Taiwan.

Taiwan's health authorities have uncovered the illegal use of maleic acid as a food additive in products from two factories, seizing an estimated 25 tonnes of product and ingredients before they could reach the market.

Maleic acid was added to products including tapioca balls and rice noodles to give them more elasticity. A health official said maleic acid is not known to have adverse effects on human health, and has not been linked to cancer, adding that an average-sized adult could consume 30mg of maleic acid in a day without their health being affected.

Health authorities were alerted in March and April that certain food manufacturers have been adding maleic acid to their products and launched an investigation into the tip-offs.

After the seizure, concentrations of maleic acid of under 800ppm was found in the food, an amount deemed within a safe range. A doctor specializing in clinical toxicology at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in New Taipei, said maleic acid is a poisonous industrial chemical and it is therefore unethical to add it to food, even in small amounts.

The authorities will conduct a further investigation into the manufacturers involved and decide whether to issue a fine of NT$30,000 to NT$150,000 (US$1,000-$5,000).

Maleic acid is not allowed to add in food, we should learn some safe information about the compound, and be minder of the food which is added Maleic acid.

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