Origin
Adipic acid is a naturally occurring substance that normally occurs in sugar beets and also in red beets. For industrial use, however, E 355 is not extracted from these vegetables but produced through a chemical process. E 355 is obtained by the oxidation of cyclohexenes with nitric acid. This process yields a colorless and odorless crystalline solid that has an acidic taste.
Usage
Adipic acid is exclusively permitted as an additive in the following foods: desserts, drink powders, dried dessert powders, coatings for sweets, and fillings for baked goods. Since E 355 is not very water-soluble, it is well suited for powdered dry food products. The mild acidic taste of E 355 makes the substance an ideal additive for sour fruit gums.
Risks
E 355 is a harmless additive and completely safe. In the human body, adipic acid breaks down into water and carbon dioxide. Foods containing this substance can be consumed without concern.