Ingredient · E270

Lactic Acid From Plant Sources

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add lactic acid primarily as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer. It …

What it is

Lactic acid is a naturally occurring organic acid. When derived from plant sources, it is typically produced through the fermentation of sugars found in plants, such as corn or sugarcane, by lactic acid bacteria. This process yields a food-grade acid used in various applications.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add lactic acid primarily as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer. It provides a mild, tangy taste and helps control pH in foods. It is commonly found in dairy products, baked goods, beverages, and pickled vegetables.

Health notes

Lactic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a normal product of metabolism in the human body. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated lactic acid and its salts, finding them safe for consumption. No significant health concerns are associated with the typical levels found in food.

Allergen info

Lactic acid itself is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Lactic Acid From Plant Sources

Compare products →

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.