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Maleic Acid
Maleic Acid
Moderate concern
Maleic acid is not commonly used in food. It is known to cause kidney damage at high doses (Fanconi syndrome) and has been involved in food adulteration scandals (e.g., 2013 Taiwan starch scandal).
Found in
4 products
What it is
Maleic acid is a dicarboxylic acid used industrially and as a chemical intermediate.
Acidulant; pH adjuster. Limited direct food use; primarily industrial.
Why it's flagged
- nephrotoxic at high doses
- not approved as food additive
What regulators actually say
"Maleic acid is known to cause renal toxicity in animal studies, manifesting as Fanconi-like syndrome."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as indirect food additive in food contact substances; not for direct food use
European Union — EFSA
Not approved as direct food additive
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