What is Malic Acid？

Description

Malic acid is the primary acid present in apple and the secondary acid present in citrus fruit rather than citric acid. It imparts a smoother fruity flavour than any other acid. Malic acid is a crystalline white solid with a melting point of 100°C.

It is water soluble and less hygroscopic as compared to others, so as to provide a good storage shelf-life. It is widely used in low-calorie drinks, e.g. cider (applewine). It enhances the colour and flavour in carbonated and non-carbonated fruit-flavoured drinks.

Malic acid levels in soft drinks, fruit juices and wine need to be strictly controlled as too low or high levels may result in product deterioration . Together with tartaric acid, malic acid makes up about 90% of the total acidity of wine. Malic acid is also used as flavoring agent in the sour confectionary sector. Similar as the other organic acids, malic acid has been found to be an effective agent for inactivating common food pathogens on fresh vegetables.

Application

1)In food

In foods, malic acid is used as a flavoring agent to give food a tart taste.

Malic acid plays an important role in giving foods, specifically fruits, their pleasant sour taste. Malic acid is commonly used as a food additive in foods like potato chips and candy. Instead of using citric acid to create the sour taste, candies that require a more intense sour flavor use malic acid. Salt and vinegar flavored chips use malic acid to produce that appealing tart taste.

2)Exercise Performance

Malic acid plays an important role in energy production for the human body. For this reason, many people believe that malic acid improves exercise performance and strength.

A number of supplements that contain malic acid are currently available. Usually, these supplements will contain malate, which is a form of this acid that the body uses for energy.

Malic acid is also sometimes combined with creatine, a popular sports supplement. Creatine is used to increase muscle mass and strength. A study found that creatine malate increases performance in sprinters and long-distance runners.

3)In Personal Care

Malic acid is found in many hygiene and skin care products. In mouthwash, this chemical aids in dental hygiene by acting as an oral antiseptic and encouraging saliva production. When applied to skin, malic acid tightens pores, reduces wrinkles. malic acid’s role in melasma, a common condition that leaves dark patches on the skin. In the study, 35 people received skin care therapy that included vitamin C and malic acid. Skin discoloration improved by an average of 73% and each person in the study saw a benefit.

Malic acid is found in many hygiene and skin care products. In mouthwash, this chemical aids in dental hygiene by acting as an oral antiseptic and encouraging saliva production. When applied to skin, malic acid tightens pores, reduces wrinkles. and evens tone.