My diet:

E270 Lactic acid

E270Acidity regulatorsOrigin: Fermented
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Every diet

VeganYes

Despite the name, it's made by fermenting plant sugars, not from milk.

Full answer ›
Gluten-freeYes
HalalYes
KosherYes
KetoYes

Used in tiny amounts and has no meaningful carbs.

Low-FODMAPYes
The short answer
Lactic acid (E270) is a mild food acid made by fermenting plant sugars. It's safe, fits every diet we check, and has nothing to do with lactose.
Generally safe

Fine for most people at normal amounts.

E-numberE270
Comes fromFermented
What it doesAcidity regulators
Glycemic index—
Daily limitNot set
Also calledLactic acid, L-lactic acid

Make cheese and pickles at home

For your pantry
Food-grade bottle

Food-grade lactic acid (88%)

A few drops sour fresh cheese, brines and dough.

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Precision tool

pH test strips for food

Check that pickles and ferments are acidic enough to be safe.

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Rules by country

🇺🇸 US FDAApproved
🇪🇺 European UnionApproved
🇨🇦 Health CanadaApproved
CaliforniaNo extra rules

Approved everywhere with no daily limit. The only restriction is in baby food, where the EU allows only the L(+) form.

Daily limit: Experts haven’t set a number because normal food amounts are far below any level of concern.

What is it?

Lactic acid gives a gentle, rounded sourness. Your own muscles make it during exercise, and it forms naturally in yogurt, sourdough, pickles and kimchi.

Where it comes from: Made by bacteria that ferment plant sugars, usually from corn, beets or cane. It's the same acid that makes yogurt and sauerkraut sour.

Why it’s in food

  • Adds a mild sour taste
  • Lowers pH to keep bacteria from growing
  • Coats sour candy without making it sticky
  • Keeps olives and pickles firm and tangy

Often found in

Sour candyOlives and picklesSalad dressingsCheese and dairy-free cheeseBeer and sourdoughSauerkraut

Also listed as: Lactic acid, L-lactic acid, L(+)-lactic acid, DL-lactic acid

Health & gut impact

Lactose intoleranceBenefit

Lactic acid contains no lactose and no milk protein, so it's fine for people who avoid dairy.

The Vegetarian Resource Group, Guide to Food Ingredients

Safety reviewBenefit

The body makes and burns lactic acid every day. Regulators see no need for a daily limit.

21 CFR 184.1061

What can I use instead?

Citric acid

Ratio: About 1:1 by weight

Best for: Candy and drinks

Vinegar

Ratio: To taste

Best for: Pickles and dressings

Related

Is it vegan?

More acidity regulators:

Citric Acid E330Citric acid (E330) is the sour acid of lemons, made by fermentation. It's safe, vegan, gluten-free and keto-friendly.Generally safeCream of tartar (Potassium bitartrate) E336Cream of tartar (E336) is a natural acid scraped from wine barrels. Bakers use it to whip stable meringue and to make baking powder. It's safe, vegan and fits every diet we check.Generally safeMalic acid E296Malic acid (E296) is the sour taste of green apples, made in a factory for candy and drinks. It's safe, though very sour candy can wear down tooth enamel.Generally safePhosphoric Acid E338Phosphoric acid (E338) gives cola its sharp bite. It's fine for every diet, but heavy cola drinking is linked to lower bone density in women and to tooth erosion.Use in moderation

Common questions

Is Lactic acid safe?

Generally safe (95/100). Approved everywhere with no daily limit. The only restriction is in baby food, where the EU allows only the L(+) form.

Is Lactic acid vegan?

Yes. Despite the name, it's made by fermenting plant sugars, not from milk.

Is Lactic acid gluten-free?

Yes.

Is lactic acid dairy?

No. The name comes from sour milk, where it was first found, but food-grade lactic acid is made from plant sugars.

Is lactic acid the same as lactose?

No. Lactose is milk sugar. Lactic acid is an acid with no sugar or milk in it.

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Scientific sources & regulatory citations
  • 21 CFR 184.1061 (US FDA)
  • EFSA OpenFoodTox: E270
  • The Vegetarian Resource Group, Guide to Food Ingredients
  • 21 CFR 184.1061

Last checked against FDA, EFSA and Health Canada records: November 1, 2026 · INS 270 · CAS 50-21-5