Inosinic acid

International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 630

Food additives Europe numbers: E630 

Inosinic acid (IMP) is a naturally occurring substance found in many foods, but it can also be produced commercially and used as a food additive. It enhances savory flavors, particularly umami, one of the five basic tastes. Here's a breakdown of inosinic acid as a food excipient:

• Natural Occurrence: Found in meat, fish, poultry, some vegetables (like mushrooms and tomatoes), and breast milk.
• Additive Function: Umami flavor enhancer. It intensifies and balances other savory flavors like glutamate (another common food additive).
• Commercial Production: Made from inosine, a substance found in meat or can be synthesized from other chemicals.
• Safety: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, high consumption might cause gout flare-ups in susceptible individuals.
• Regulation: Generally allowed in most countries with limitations on usage levels depending on the specific food.