Malic acid is found in fruits and vegetables and is the principle acid in apples. Malic acid's smooth sourness is one reason it is blended with a variety of sugars, other food acids, sweeteners, seasonings and flavorings. Malic acid is also a common ingredient in cosmetics, mouthwashes, toothpaste, cough syrups, throat lozenges and effervescent medicinal powders. Malic acid is generally considered safe; the danger lies in allergic reactions and certain side effects when used in large doses.
Allergic Reaction
Natural forms of malic acid are found in many common foods, food products and supplements. Malic acid allergies have a low incidence, but for those who are allergic it can cause severe symptoms. Common allergic reactions include itching, hives, trouble breathing, abdominal pain, dizziness and swelling of the throat. In severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis may occur. Symptoms include swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, light-headedness, loss of conciseness and shock. If any of these symptoms occur, seek emergency treatment.
Digestive Problems
Malic acid can cause some digestive upset if you are sensitive to acids. It is a strong fruit acid that can cause mild gastrointestinal problems when taken in large doses. These symptoms are rare, and malic acid is generally well tolerated in the general population.
Contact Dermatitis
Malic acid is added to many everyday consumer products such as toothpaste, mouthwashes and soaps. Cases of contact dermatitis are rare but can occur from using one of these products. Malic acid used in Stomahesive paste caused one women to develop contact dermatitis after using the paste to secure her colostomy equipment, noted N.S. Heskel in an article published in the 1987 issue of "Contact Dermatitis."
Eye and Skin Irritant
Malic acid is a form of alphahydroxy acid, AHA, which is a fruit acid commonly used in facial peels. It helps remove dead skin cells, improving the overall look of your skin. AHAs can cause skin irritation and redness if you have sensitive skin. Products containing high concentrations of malic acid can cause burning, itching and in extreme cases, scarring. Malic acid is also an eye irritant. If you get it in your eyes, flush your eyes with water immediately.
References
- Great Vista Chemicals: Malic Acid
- "Journal of Rheumatology": Treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome with Super Malic; I.J. Russell; May 1995
- Bartek: Malic Acid;
- "Contact Dermatitis": Allergic Contact Dermatitis From Stomadhesive Paste; N.S. Heskel; March 1987
- Mayo Clinic: Food Allergy-Symptoms; February 2011
- Toxnet: Malic Acid;
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