Dipotassium Tartrate
Also known as: E336ii, dipotassic tartrate, Potassium tartrate, E336
Dipotassium tartrate is considered safe at typical food-use levels. Tartrates were re-evaluated by EFSA in 2018 and an ADI of 240 mg/kg bw/day (as tartaric acid) was reaffirmed.
What it is
Dipotassium tartrate (E336(ii)), the dipotassium salt of L-tartaric acid; a white crystalline powder.
Acidity regulator, stabilizer, sequestrant, and emulsifier in foods; can also serve as a leavening adjunct.
Why it's flagged
- mild laxative effect at very high intakes
- potassium load relevant to kidney patients
What regulators actually say
"The Panel concluded that an ADI of 240 mg L(+)-tartaric acid/kg bw per day could be derived for the group of food additives L(+)-tartaric acid (E 334) and its mono- and di-sodium, -potassium and -calcium salts (E 335-E 339)."
"The ingredient is used as a buffer and a neutralizing agent... Generally Recognized as Safe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Potassium tartrate is GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1077/184.1804 (related potassium salts of tartaric acid) for use as a buffer and neutralizing agent.
European Union — EFSA
Approved food additive E336; ADI 240 mg/kg bw/day expressed as tartaric acid (EFSA 2018).
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