E297: Fumaric acid
What is E297?
Fumaric acid is an organic acid that occurs naturally in many plants and fungi and is also part of human cellular metabolism. Labelled E297, it is a white crystalline powder with a strong sour taste and low solubility in water.
Origin and production
Commercially, it is produced mainly from maleic acid, a petrochemical derivative, but it can also be made by fermentation.
Why is it used?
Fumaric acid adds sourness and regulates acidity. Because it absorbs little moisture, it is useful in dry mixes and sour sweet coatings, and it is also used in breads, cakes, plant-based beverages, sandwiches and jellies.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Fumaric acid is synthetic or fermentation-derived and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It is not generally a halal or kosher concern.
Safety and regulation
Fumaric acid is authorised as a food additive in the EU, with use limited to certain food categories and maximum levels. It has been evaluated by EFSA and JECFA.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E297
