Potassium Bitartrate

Potassium bitartrate is a salt of tartaric acid, a naturally occurring acid found in fruits like grapes. It is a byproduct of winemaking, often appearing as a crystalline deposit in wine barrels. It is purified and processed for use as a food ingredient.

It is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking, often combined with baking soda to create cream of tartar. This combination reacts to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise. It also helps stabilize egg whites and prevent sugar crystallization in icings and candies.

Potassium bitartrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its intended use in food. It is a source of potassium, an essential mineral. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated potassium bitartrate. It is not associated with significant health controversies at typical dietary intakes.