5 Foods That Have the Highest Concentration of Malic Acid to Benefit Your Diet

Malic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in many fruits and vegetables, and is largely responsible for the sour taste found in apples and pears. It is also used as a food additive and a supplement, and has many health benefits, including helping conditions fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Malic acid is produced when the human body converts carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy and water, according to The Healthier Life.

As a bonus, malic acid can also improve oral hygiene, reduce pain and increase energy, according to Acidpedia.

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Here are five foods that have the highest concentration of malic acid to benefit your diet:

1. Fruits in general have malic acid, but it's especially abundant in apples. Ninety-four to 98 percent of apple's total acid comes from malic acid, according to Bartek.ca. Watermelon is another great source of malic acid, with 85 to 95 percent of the total acid content. Apricots, bananas, blackberries, cherries, grapes, kiwi, lychees, mango, nectarines, oranges, peaches, pears and strawberries are other fine choices.

2. Vegetables. Like fruits, malic acid is also a natural compound in many vegetables, including broccoli, beans, carrots, peas, potatoes, tomatoes and rhubarb, according to Livestrong.com.

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3. Malic acid is used as a flavor enhancer in a variety of foods, including some hard and soft candies, sherbets and water ices, chewing gum, fruit preserves and bakery items with fruit fillings. Soy yogurt is another product that adds malic acid to mimic the sour taste of traditional cow's milk yogurt.

4. Beverages. Malic acid adds flavor and or acts as a preservative to an assortment of carbonated or non-carbonated beverages, including regular and sugar-free. It's also found in powdered iced tea and fruit-flavored drinks, plus alcoholic ciders and wine.

5. Medical and personal hygiene products. Malic acid in throat lozenges and cough syrups can lessen the tartness of the other active components, according to Bartek.ca. Since it also encourages saliva flow, it is used in toothpastes and mouthwashes.

This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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