Formic Acid (E236): What It Is and Is It Safe?
The simplest carboxylic acid. Occurs naturally in ant venom, stinging nettle, and some fruits. Used as a preservative in certain fish products and as an acidity regulator in the EU. At food use levels it is generally tolerable, though EFSA noted limited toxicological data compared to other organic acids. High concentrations are corrosive. Not permitted as a direct food additive in the USA.
- Category
- Preservative / Acidity Regulator
- Typically used in
- Some preserved fish products, certain flavouring preparations (limited EU use)
- Regulatory status
- Limited approval EU/UK. Not approved USA as direct food additive.
- Concerns flagged
-
Digestive upset
Scrannr flags Formic Acid automatically when you scan a barcode.
Where this comes from
- EFSA (2014) — Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of formic acid -E 236-, sodium formate -E 237- and calcium formate -E 238- as food additives https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3530
Products containing Formic Acid
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