E336: Monopotassium tartrate
What is E336?
Monopotassium tartrate (E336i), widely known as cream of tartar, is the acidic potassium salt of tartaric acid. It is a fine white powder with a tart taste.
Origin and production
It crystallises naturally during wine-making, forming deposits in barrels and on corks. These crude tartrates are collected and purified to produce food-grade cream of tartar.
Why is it used?
In baking powders and cake mixes it reacts with sodium bicarbonate to release carbon dioxide and leaven cakes and biscuits. Home cooks also use it to stabilise whipped egg whites for meringues and to prevent sugar syrups from crystallising.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Cream of tartar is plant-derived and generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Although it comes from wine production, it contains no alcohol; halal acceptance can vary, so certification is the clearest indicator.
Safety and regulation
E336 is authorised in the EU and has been evaluated by EFSA within the tartaric acid and tartrates group.
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 E336
