E336: Potassium tartrates

What is E336?

Potassium tartrates (E336) are potassium salts of tartaric acid, a natural acid found in grapes. The group includes monopotassium tartrate, better known as cream of tartar, and dipotassium tartrate.

Origin and production

They are traditionally recovered from wine-making, where tartrate crystals form on the inside of barrels and in grape sediment. These deposits are purified to food grade.

Why is it used?

Cream of tartar is an acid component of some baking powders, reacting with bicarbonate to release carbon dioxide and make cakes and biscuits rise. Potassium tartrates also regulate acidity and help stabilise whipped egg whites, which explains their presence in cake mixes, biscuits and baked goods.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Potassium tartrates come from grapes and are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Because they originate in wine production, some people following halal diets may wish to check certification, though the substance itself contains no alcohol.

Safety and regulation

E336 is authorised in the EU and has been evaluated by EFSA as part of the tartaric acid and tartrates group.

Common in