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Sweeteners & Food Additives

L-malic acid

CAS: 97-67-6

Overview

L-malic acid ( CAS 97-67-6 ), also known as L-hydroxysuccinic acid, is a naturally occurring organic acid used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. It functions primarily as an acidulant, pH regulator, and flavor enhancer.

This compound delivers a smooth, tart taste profile preferred over sharper mineral acids in many formulations. In food and beverage production, it acidulates fruit-flavored confectionery, soft drinks, and low-calorie products.

Its lingering tartness often outperforms citric acid in specific applications. Pharmaceutical formulators use it to adjust pH in oral solutions, effervescent tablets, and chewable dosage forms where taste masking is critical.

In personal care, it acts as a pH buffer in leave-on skin formulations and mild chemical exfoliant systems. Its antimicrobial contribution also supports preservation in acidified food systems and topical cosmetic products.

L-malic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule. Standard grades include food-grade ( FCC ), pharmaceutical-grade ( USP / BP ), and technical-grade for industrial applications.

Packaging typically ranges from 25 kg bags to bulk quantities. Food and pharma grades are supported by full documentation including certificates of analysis and origin to ensure compliance with global safety standards.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point130-132 °C
Boiling Point167.16°C (rough estimate)
Density1.025 g/cm³
Flash Point220 °C
Appearancewhite crystalline powder or granules
ColorWhite
Odorodorless
FormPowder
Water Solubilitysoluble
Vapor Pressure0Pa at 25℃
Refractive Index-6.5 ° (C=10, Acetone)
pH2.2 (10g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P-1.68

Safety & Handling

Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation Precautionary Statements P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29181980
WGK (Germany)3

Other Names

S-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid | S-(-)-malic acid | L-hydroxysuccinic acid | L-hydroxybutanedioic acid | (S)-hydroxybutanedioic acid | (S)-(-)-hydroxysuccinic acid | (2S)-2-hydroxysuccinic acid | (2S)-2-hydroxybutanedioic acid

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Chemical Properties

CAS Number
97-67-6
EC Number
202-601-5
Mol. Weight
134.09
HS Code
29181980

Industries

Documentation