Acetic Acid(E260)
Level 3 — ContestedIn Winter's Dictionary
Acetic Acid is a acidulant — Acidulant; solvent for gums, resins, volatile oils; styptic
What it does
Acidulant; solvent for gums, resins, volatile oils; styptic
Where you'll see it
Apples, cheese, cocoa, coffee, grapes, milk, oranges, peaches, pineapples, strawberries naturally; used in cheese, baked goods, ketchup, mayonnaise, pickles, animal feeds
What the research says
Glacial form is highly corrosive; vapors can produce lung obstruction. Less than 5% in solution mildly irritating to skin. Caused cancer in rats and mice when given orally or by injection. Potential adverse skin reactions include irritation, itching, hives.
Benefits
Styptic - stops bleeding when applied to a cut
Regulatory status
- US FDA: GRAS
- EU: approved
- Notes: Vinegar is about 4-6% acetic acid
Sources
- A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): In its glacial form (without much water) it is highly corrosive and its vapors are capable of producing lung obstruction