INS 296 is malic acid, the sour-sharp acid found naturally in apples and tamarind. On packs it is used as an acidulant, often where brands want a slower, deeper sourness than the quick zing of citric acid (INS 330). It is generally vegan and is permitted by FSSAI for specified food categories.
INS 296 is malic acid, the sour-sharp acid found naturally in apples and tamarind. On packs it is used as an acidulant, often where brands want a slower, deeper sourness than the quick zing of citric acid (INS 330).
Brands use it because the sourness lingers a beat longer than citric acid, which suits boiled sweets, apple-flavoured drinks, and sour candies. It also helps preservation by lowering pH and works in low-calorie products.
INS 296 commonly shows up on Indian packets in these categories:
Food-grade malic acid is produced by chemical synthesis (hydration of maleic or fumaric acid) and yields the racemic DL-form. No animal product is used in its manufacture.
FSSAI: Permitted by FSSAI as an acidity regulator under Schedule I of the FSS (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations 2011 for specified food categories.
JECFA: Group ADI 'not specified' for L-, D-, and DL-malic acid and its sodium, potassium, and calcium salts, established at the 17th JECFA (1973). 'Not specified' means JECFA considers total dietary intake at typical use levels is not a hazard.
On packets, in recipes, and in conversation, INS 296 is also called:
Last verified: 2026-04-29.
This page covers INS 296 one additive at a time. To check a full packet's ingredient list against the same FSSAI / JECFA / EFSA-cited dataset, use the Indian Food Ingredient Checker - paste the whole list and get a per-item verdict plus a composite tone (clear / watch / flag / incomplete).