Fumaric acid CWS, also known as fumaric acid cold water soluble, is a versatile organic acid with applications in various industries, particularly food and pharmaceuticals. Here's a breakdown of its key characteristics and uses:
Properties:
- Organic acid: Fumaric acid is a white crystalline powder with a tart taste.
- Cold water soluble (CWS): The "CWS" designation indicates that this specific form of fumaric acid dissolves readily in cold water, making it more versatile for certain applications compared to regular fumaric acid.
- Food-grade: Fumaric acid CWS is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA.
Applications:
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Food Acidulant: Fumaric acid CWS is a primary use as an acidulant in various food products. It adds a pleasant tart flavor and helps to:
- Control pH levels: Maintaining desired acidity is crucial for food safety, taste, texture, and shelf life.
- Enhance shelf life: Fumaric acid CWS can inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, extending the shelf life of perishable foods.
- Flavor synergy: It can interact with other flavoring ingredients to create a more desirable taste profile.
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Pharmaceutical Applications: Fumaric acid CWS finds uses in some pharmaceutical formulations as:
- Acidulant: Similar to its role in food, it can help regulate acidity in medications.
- Masking agent: Fumaric acid CWS can help mask unpleasant tasting ingredients in some medications.
Other Potential Uses:
- Cosmetics: Fumaric acid CWS may have some applications in cosmetic products, although this is less common compared to food and pharmaceutical uses.