Synthetic vs. Natural Malic Acid: What You Need to Know
Back to Blog Homepage By Ericka Gunther on Jan 6th 2025 Malic acid is not just a name on a food label. It is the natural compound that makes apples tart and gives cherries their nice tang.But when it comes to using malic acid in products ranging from beverages to cosmetics, not all forms are created equal. Understanding the difference between DL-malic acid and natural L-malic acid can help manufacturers, formulators, and consumers make informed choices. Malic acid is an organic compound naturally found in many fruits and vegetables, especially apples, which is why its name/genus is derived from the Latin wordmālum/Malus, meaning apple. It's a dicarboxylic acid that plays a crucial role in the Krebs cycle, a key energy-producing process in the human body. The salts and esters of malic acid are known as malates. In the food industry, malic acid is prized for its ability to enhance flavor profiles by adding a sour or tart taste. It's a clear, colorless substance that dissolves readily in...