Ingredient Information

Function

Traditionally used externally for rheumatic pains, succinic acid is now also used in the food and beverage industry as a sweetener. The annual global production of succinic acid is 16,000 to 30,000 tons, with an annual growth rate of 105%. Succinic acid is also known as butanedioic acid and spirit of amber

Other Use and Industries

Succinic acid is used in the manufacture of resins, polymers and pharmaceuticals. Used as excipient in pharmaceuticals, it helps control acidity. It is also used as an intermediate for plasticizer, photographic chemicals, coatings, perfumes, lacquers and dyes.

Health Effects

According to the AmberArtisans.com, succinic acid, the main ingredient in Baltic amber, helps prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals in the body and is therefore referred to as the modern elixir of youth. The aforementioned source also reports the effectiveness of antioxidants found in succinic acid help neural system recovery and strengthen the immune system.

Drugtopics.com reports that succinic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry to cure acidity. It also helps improve oxygen supply, normalize energy and physiological condition of the body and helps prevent age-related brain disorders. Although safe, there may be rare cases of succinic acid’s side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, stomach upset, nausea and darkened or green stools. Severe allergic reactions include itching, swelling of the face, lips and tongues, hives, rashes, black stools, persistent vomiting and stomach pain. In such cases, it is important to seek immediate medical intervention.

The acid is corrosive, combustible and can cause burns.

Origins

Created as a byproduct of sugar fermentation, succinic acid has a characteristic bitter, salty and acidic taste found in fermented beverages such as wine and beer.