Product Description
Reference Standards &Impurity
AI Product Description
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Malic acid, chemically known as 2-hydroxybutanedioic acid, is a naturally occurring organic compound widely recognized for its sour taste and significant role in biological metabolism. Its molecular formula is C₄H₆O₅, and it carries the CAS Registry Number 6915-15-7. This dicarboxylic acid exists in two enantiomeric forms: L-malic acid and D-malic acid, with the L-isomer being the predominant form found in nature. It occurs abundantly in various fruits, particularly green apples, which inspired its name derived from the Latin word "malum," meaning apple.
In the industrial sector, malic acid serves as a versatile additive across multiple domains. In the food and beverage industry, it is extensively utilized as an acidity regulator, flavor enhancer, and preservative. Its sharp, tart profile makes it ideal for soft drinks, fruit juices, candies, and dairy products, often serving as a substitute for citric acid to provide a more complex, lingering sourness without excessive sweetness. Furthermore, it acts as a natural preservative by lowering pH levels, thereby inhibiting microbial growth and extending shelf life.
Beyond food applications, malic acid plays a crucial role in personal care and cosmetics. Due to its mild exfoliating properties, it is a key ingredient in alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) skincare formulations. It helps remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and enhance hydration by promoting moisture retention. In the pharmaceutical field, it functions as an excipient and is sometimes used in effervescent tablets to generate carbon dioxide when mixed with bicarbonates. Additionally, it finds utility in agriculture as a soil amendment and in water treatment processes to adjust pH levels. As a metabolite in the Krebs cycle, it is also vital for cellular energy production in living organisms. With its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status in many countries, malic acid remains a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking natural, safe, and effective solutions for diverse commercial applications.