International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives:472f
Food additives Europe numbers:E472f
As you correctly noted earlier, mixed acetic and tartaric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (MATEM or E472f) is not a medical substance. It's a food additive classified as an emulsifier. Here's a summary of its function in food:
- Emulsifier: Helps combine ingredients that wouldn't normally mix, like oil and water. This creates a smooth texture and stability in many processed foods.
- Composition: A combination of:
- Mono- and diglycerides: Fats derived from vegetable oils.
- Acetic acid: The main component of vinegar.
- Tartaric acid: Found naturally in fruits like grapes and tamarinds.
- Properties:
- Can be liquid, solid, or a white to pale yellow powder.
- May have a mild vinegar odor.
- Disperses or dissolves in oils and fats, not water.
- Food Applications:
- Found in various processed foods like baked goods, whipped cream, margarine, and salad dressings.
- Helps create a smooth texture, prevents separation of ingredients, and improves shelf life.
Safety as a Food Additive:
- Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA and JECFA.
Important Considerations:
- While considered safe overall, some studies suggest a possible link between high intake of certain emulsifiers (like some lactic acid esters of mono- and diglycerides) and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. More research is needed to confirm this specifically for MATEM.
In Conclusion:
MATEM is a food additive used to improve texture and stability in processed foods. It's not a medicine and shouldn't be used for any medical purposes. If you have concerns about food additives or MATEM, consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized advice.