High Purity Glacial Acetic Acid (E260)

Acetic acid (E260) is an organic acid, the main component of vinegar, recognized for its characteristic sour taste and antimicrobial properties. It is the primary component that gives vinegar its characteristic flavor and aroma and is widely used as an acidulant, flavoring, and preservative.

It is commonly produced by the fermentation of ethanol by bacteria of the genus Acetobacter or synthetically. For food use, it is presented in aqueous solutions of various concentrations.

Regulatory Status and Safety Considerations

Acetic acid is a widely studied food additive and is considered safe for human consumption at the doses permitted by major regulatory authorities, including:

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
• Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)

In general, acetic acid is well tolerated. In very high concentrations, it can be irritating, but at the doses used in food, it is safe.

For more information, download the technical data sheet