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E353 Metatartaric Acid – Wine Stabilizer Explained

E353 (metatartaric acid) is an approved food additive used as a stabilizer primarily in winemaking to prevent the formation of tartrate crystal deposits in wine.

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Things worth knowing about "E353"

E353 (metatartaric acid) is an approved food additive used as a stabilizer primarily in winemaking to prevent the formation of tartrate crystal deposits in wine.

What is E353 (Metatartaric Acid)?

E353, known as metatartaric acid, is a synthetically produced food additive obtained by the partial esterification of tartaric acid. It belongs to the category of stabilizers and acidity regulators and is approved for use as a food additive within the European Union.

Uses and Applications

E353 is used almost exclusively in winemaking. Its primary purpose is to prevent the precipitation of potassium bitartrate (cream of tartar) and calcium tartrate crystals in wine. Although these crystal deposits are harmless to health, they affect the visual appearance of the wine and may give consumers the impression of a defective product.

Stabilization of white, rosé, and red wines
Prevention of crystal formation in bottled wines
Preservation of the visual quality of the finished product

Mechanism of Action

Metatartaric acid is a polymer of tartaric acid, produced by heating tartaric acid under controlled conditions. In wine, E353 binds to crystal nuclei of potassium bitartrate and inhibits their growth -- a process known as crystallization inhibition. This keeps the tartrate salts in solution and prevents them from forming visible crystals.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of metatartaric acid is temperature-dependent. At elevated storage temperatures, E353 can hydrolyze and lose its stabilizing effect. For this reason, it is most suitable for wines stored at cool temperatures and intended for near-term consumption.

Regulatory Approval and Legal Framework

Within the European Union, E353 is approved under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives, as well as specific wine regulations. Its use is restricted to wine, with a maximum permitted level of generally 100 mg/L. The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has also listed metatartaric acid in its International Oenological Codex.

Safety and Health Assessment

Metatartaric acid is considered safe for human health when used as intended at approved levels. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated E353 and found no reason for health concern. Since E353 is chemically related to naturally occurring tartaric acid, it is metabolized in the body in a similar manner.

No known toxicity at typical consumption levels
No established ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) value required
No known allergenic potential

Labeling Requirements

Wines to which E353 has been added must declare this on the label in accordance with EU labeling regulations, either as E353 or as metatartaric acid. This allows consumers to identify the additive in the product.

References

European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food additives. Official Journal of the European Union.
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority): Re-evaluation of metatartaric acid (E 353) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2020.
OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine): International Code of Oenological Practices. Paris, current edition.

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