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Sodium Fumarate

Summary

What it is

Common uses

Public Perception

Anxiety level

Cultural claims

Source sentiment

History

Timeline

Origin

Science

Key findings

Studies

Safety status

Nuance

Alternatives

Swaps

Avoidance tips

References

Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago

Sodium Fumarate

ingredientPreservatives

Total Sources: 47

Verified Claims: 31

Scientific Sources: 24

Summary

Sodium fumarate is a sodium salt of fumaric acid, used as a food additive, acidity regulator, and in some medical treatments [1], [14]. It appears as a white powder and is water-soluble [30].

What it is

Monosodium fumarate is an organic sodium salt derived from fumaric acid, functioning as a food acidity regulator [14]. It is created by replacing a proton from one of the carboxy groups of fumaric acid with a sodium ion [14].

Common uses

Food acidity regulator [14], [17]
Preservative [1]
Flavoring agent [1]
Treatment for psoriasis (fumaric acid esters) [7], [8]

Public Perception

Anxiety level

Moderate. Concerns exist regarding potential impurities, allergic reactions, and side effects, balanced by its approved use in various applications [1], [2], [43].

Cultural claims

Some sources suggest concern about the presence of toxicologically relevant impurities depending on the manufacturing process [2].
Some sources suggest that individuals may need to avoid it due to corn allergies because of potential cross-contamination [43].

Source sentiment

Mixed. While generally recognized as safe for specific uses, some discussions revolve around potential side effects and the need for alternatives in specific conditions [26], [27], [28], [29].

History

Timeline

1885

Early research documented the decomposition of aromatic ethereal salts of fumaric acid [31].

1977

Sodium stearyl fumarate was approved as a food additive [16], [17].

1982

The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives evaluated certain food additives and contaminants [3].

2010

Regulation (EU) No 257/2010 set the program for the re-evaluation of food additives [2].

2024

EFSA delivered a scientific opinion on the safety of fumaric acid as a feed additive [1].

Science

Key findings

Fumaric acid esters are effective in treating psoriasis, but can cause gastrointestinal issues and flushing [7], [8].
Fumaric acid esters may induce renal Fanconi syndrome due to mitochondrial toxicity [11].
Fumarate accumulation can be mediated by trained immunity, potentially affecting bacterial persistence [25].
Maltobionic and lactobionic acids can promote Faecalibacterium growth in the gut through microbial cross-feeding networks [6].

Studies

Oral fumaric acid esters for psoriasis: abridged Cochrane systematic review including GRADE assessments - PubMed

Fumaric acid esters (FAEs) are beneficial for psoriasis treatment compared to placebo, but may cause adverse effects [7].

Fumaric acid ester-induced renal Fanconi syndrome: evidence of mitochondrial toxicity - PubMed

Fumaric acid esters can cause renal Fanconi syndrome due to proximal tubular damage and abnormal mitochondrial morphology [11].

Regulation of airway fumarate by host and pathogen promotes Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia - PMC

Airway fumarate regulation by the host and pathogen can promote Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia [12].

Trained immunity in recurrent Staphylococcus aureus infection promotes bacterial persistence

Trained immunity contributes to rifampicin persistence of S. aureus in secondary infection, where it reduces the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment and increased disease severity [25].

Safety status

Generally recognized as safe under specific conditions of use [1], [16], [17].

Nuance

While fumaric acid and its salts are generally considered safe for use in food, potential adverse effects, especially with fumaric acid esters in medical treatments, warrant caution and further research [1], [7], [11].

Alternatives

Potassium Chloride
A salt substitute that can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke [23].
Where to find: Available in most grocery stores [Source 23].

Glucono delta-lactone
Acidulant, leavening agent, pH control agent, and preservative [43].

Avoidance tips

Carefully check food labels for fumaric acid and its salts, especially in processed foods [35].
Opt for fresh, whole foods to minimize exposure to food additives [35].
Prepare meals at home to control ingredients and reduce reliance on processed foods [35].