| Essence |
Potassium Tartrate or E336 is a Potassium Salt of Tartaric Acid that presents itself as a fine, white crystalline powder (with often needle-shaped or elongated crystals) that is odorless and has a slightly acidic taste, and is primarily used as a leavening agent in food. There are two different Potassium Tartrates: 1) Monopotassium Tartrate or E336(i) and 2) Dipotassium Tartrate or E336(ii). |
| Names |
Cream of Tartar, Tartaric acid potassium salt, Potassium hydrogen tartrate, Potassium bitartrate, E336, Potassium Tartrate, and others. |
| Sourcing |
Basically, from Tartaric Acid (E334) which is a natural byproduct of the winemaking process. |
| Manufacturing |
During the winemaking process, the sourcing ingredient can crystallize as Potassium Bitartrate in two places, either on the inside of wine barrels or on the surface of wine corks. It is scraped off and purified. The resulting substance is combined with either Potassium Hydroxide or Potassium Carbonate (all happening in water). This mixture undergoes heating and stirring. When cream of tartar dissolves, it cooled for the additive to allow it to crystalize out. These crystals are then separated, washed, and dried. |
| Application |
Acidity regulator, flavor enhancer, stabilizer, leavening agent, sequestrant, and tenderizer. Soluble in water. |
| Acceptable Daily Intake |
None determined. |
| Side Effects |
In high amounts, gastrointestinal discomfort is possible. It can interact with such medications as angiotensin receptor blockers, ACE inhibitors, and potassium-sparing diuretics. People with kidney disease and Addison’s disease should also be careful as these diseases could make them more susceptible to overconsuming Potassium. |
| Benefits |
While it is not considered to be a significant source of Potassium, since it’s a salt of Potassium, our bodies do acquire the mineral from it. As a source of this mineral, it can help regulate blood sugar levels, aid nerve function, support muscle health, boost heart health, promote kidney function, enhance bone function, and prevent fluid dehydration. |
| Studies |
340+ studies on Pubmed. Less than 10 studies on safety. |
| Allergens |
None. |
| Diet Restrictions |
None. |
| Health Knight Assessment |
Only Beneficial. | Hence, it’s a Category 0 Additive. |
| Products |
Potassium Tartrate (E336) can be found in processed foods such as desserts, protein bars, meat substitutes, cookies, chicken meat products, jelly candy, cakes, meat-free burgers (using meat substitutes), Turkish delights, biscuits, scotch eggs, vegan popcorn, cream of tartar, brownies, fig bars, Gluten-Free bread flour, muffins, and more. |
