Malic Acid Facts

Discovered in 1785, malic acid is a naturally occurring compound found in many fruits. It is used in a variety of situations, including the flavoring of many foods. Does this Spark an idea?

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History
- Malic acid was discovered by Carl Scheele in his experiments with apple juice in the late 1700s. The word "malic" comes from the Latin "malum," or apple.
Use in Food
- Malic acid is often used in many foods, especially candy intended to be very sour or bitter. Warheads and Sour Punch candies are flavored with malic acid. Wine also has malic acid added to give it a tart flavor.
Use in Dentistry
- Malic acid is often used by dentists to clear the enamel of a tooth before it is drilled and filled.
Presence in Nature
- Malic acid is often found in fruits, including grapes, green apples, and other sour or tart fruits, especially those that are unripe.
Chemistry
- With the formula HO2CCH2CHOHCO2H, this acid is an organic compound often found in nature.

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