International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 335
Food additives Europe numbers: E335
Sodium Tartrates: A Breakdown of Monosodium and Disodium Types
Sodium tartrates are a group of food additives derived from tartaric acid. They come in various forms, but two of the most common ones you might encounter on ingredient lists are:
(i) Monosodium Tartrate (E 337(i))
- Also known as sodium L-tartrate or sodium bitartrate.
- Description: This is a white, crystalline powder with a slightly acidic taste.
- Functions in Food:
- Acidity regulator: Monosodium tartrate helps control the pH level in foods, influencing flavor, texture, and shelf life [1]. It can contribute to a tart flavor in some cases.
- Stabilizer: It can help stabilize the color and texture of certain foods, preventing browning or crystallization [2]. This can be useful in baked goods, jams, and jellies.
- Complexing agent: In some situations, it can bind with metal ions that might affect food quality [3]. This helps prevent discoloration or off-flavors.
(ii) Disodium Tartrate (E 335)
- Also known as disodium L-tartrate or Rochelle salt.
- Description: This is another white, crystalline powder, but it's more soluble in water than monosodium tartrate.
- Functions in Food:
- Acidity regulator: Similar to monosodium tartrate, it helps control pH levels, affecting taste and shelf life [1].
- Emulsifier: Disodium tartrate can help stabilize mixtures of ingredients that wouldn't normally blend well, like oil and water, creating a smooth texture [4]. This is useful in salad dressings, beverages, and some baked goods.
- Leavening agent (limited): In combination with baking soda, it can create a small amount of carbon dioxide gas, contributing slightly to the leavening of baked goods [5]. However, this use is less common.
Safety:
- Generally recognized as safe (GRAS): Both monosodium tartrate and disodium tartrate are generally recognized as safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when used within set limits [6].
Applications:
- Variety of processed foods: You might find sodium tartrates in various processed food items, including:
- Baked goods (cakes, cookies, bread crusts)
- Jellies and jams
- Processed cheeses
- Beverage powders (like instant tea or coffee)
- Candy
- Sausage casings
Choosing Between Them:
The specific type of sodium tartrate used depends on the desired functionality in the food. Disodium tartrate, with its better solubility, might be preferred for applications requiring emulsification.
Overall:
Monosodium and disodium tartrate are versatile ingredients that contribute to acidity control, texture, and stability in various processed foods. While generally safe, if you have any concerns about food additives, consulting a registered dietitian can provide more personalized guidance.