Is Tartrate Safe? Understanding Different Types and Uses

January 8, 2026 •

3 min read

According to a 2020 re-evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), food-grade tartrates have an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 240 mg/kg body weight per day, expressed as tartaric acid. The seemingly straightforward question 'is tartrate safe?' has a complex answer that depends entirely on the specific compound and its application, whether in food, medicine, or industrial settings.

Quick Summary

Tartrate safety is highly dependent on its specific form and use. While food-grade tartrates are generally harmless in moderation, certain pharmaceutical and industrial versions pose risks. It is important to distinguish between safe consumption levels of food additives and the prescribed uses of medication.

Key Points

Specific Compound Matters: The safety of 'tartrate' depends on whether it's a food additive, a medication, or an industrial chemical.
Food-Grade Tartrates: Safe in moderation, but excessive intake of high-potassium versions like cream of tartar can cause health issues, especially for those with kidney problems.
Pharmaceutical Tartrates: Medications like metoprolol tartrate are only safe when prescribed and supervised by a healthcare professional, and can have specific side effects.
Not Tartrazine: Do not confuse tartrate with tartrazine (Yellow No. 5), a food dye that can cause sensitivities in some people.
Consult a Doctor: If you have kidney disease, take heart medication, or are pregnant, always consult a doctor before consuming high amounts of tartrates or any new supplement.
Industrial Use: Some tartrate compounds, like cupric tartrate, are toxic and not for consumption.

What is a Tartrate?

A tartrate is a salt or ester of tartaric acid, a naturally occurring organic acid found in many plants, most notably grapes. The most common food-grade tartrate is potassium bitartrate, widely known as cream of tartar. However, the term 'tartrate' also refers to other compounds used in medicine and industry, each with its own safety profile and intended purpose.

Types of Tartrates and Their Uses

Food Additives: Cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate) is used in baking to stabilize egg whites and prevent sugar crystallization. Rochelle salt (sodium potassium tartrate) acts as an emulsifier and buffer in certain foods.
Pharmaceuticals: Prescription medications like metoprolol tartrate are used to treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions. L-carnitine tartrate is a dietary supplement promoted for athletic performance and weight management.
Industrial Chemicals: Compounds like cupric tartrate are used in industrial processes such as electroplating and are toxic if ingested.

Food-Grade Tartrates: Safe in Moderation

Food-grade tartrates are considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), within established limits. They are common ingredients in baked goods, soft drinks, and candies. However, as with any substance, excessive intake can lead to adverse effects.

Risks of Excessive Consumption

The primary risk associated with overconsumption of food-grade tartrates, particularly cream of tartar, is hyperkalemia, or dangerously high levels of potassium in the blood. Cream of tartar has a high potassium content, and excessive amounts can overwhelm the body's ability to process it, leading to serious health issues. Symptoms of hyperkalemia include abdominal discomfort, muscle weakness, and abnormal heart rhythm.

Comparison Table: Food-Grade vs. Pharmaceutical Tartrates


Feature	Food-Grade Tartrates (e.g., Cream of Tartar)	Pharmaceutical Tartrates (e.g., Metoprolol Tartrate)
Primary Purpose	Stabilizer, leavening agent, acidity regulator in food	Therapeutic medication for medical conditions
Safety Profile	Generally safe in normal food quantities; toxic in high doses	Medically safe when prescribed and monitored; can have significant side effects
Risk of Overdose	Hyperkalemia (high potassium) is the main risk of overconsumption	Risk of severe side effects from overdose or abrupt discontinuation
Regulatory Status	Regulated as food additives (e.g., EFSA ADI)	Regulated as prescription drugs by health agencies
Consumption Method	Ingested via food or drink; typically in small amounts	Taken orally as tablets or other medical formulations as directed

Pharmaceutical Tartrates: A Different Safety Standard

Prescription tartrates, such as metoprolol tartrate, are medications and are not meant for casual consumption. These drugs have a specific safety profile and are prescribed by a doctor for particular medical conditions. The safety of a pharmaceutical tartrate is determined by adherence to medical advice and dosage instructions.

Metoprolol Tartrate Side Effects

Side effects of metoprolol tartrate can include fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headaches, and a slow heart rate. Serious risks can occur if the medication is stopped abruptly. These are not a concern with food-grade tartrates.

Contraindications and Precautions

Pharmaceutical tartrates are contraindicated for individuals with specific health issues, including certain types of heart disease, low blood pressure, or asthma. Patients with diabetes need special monitoring, as beta-blockers can mask symptoms of low blood sugar. Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication.

Tartrate vs. Tartrazine: A Crucial Distinction

One common area of confusion is the difference between tartrate and tartrazine. Tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5, or E102) is an azo dye used as a food coloring, and it is chemically distinct from tartaric acid and its salts. Some individuals experience sensitivity to tartrazine, with symptoms including hives and asthma. This is not the same as a tartrate sensitivity.

Conclusion: Context is Key for Tartrate Safety

Ultimately, whether a tartrate is safe depends on the specific compound, the dosage, and the individual's health. Food-grade tartrates are safe for most people in moderation, but high intake can be hazardous, especially for those with kidney disease. Pharmaceutical tartrates are safe only under medical supervision, while industrial versions are toxic. It is essential to understand the different types of tartrates and to consult a doctor with any health concerns, particularly regarding medications.

Tartrate - Wikipedia

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cream of tartar is safe for most people when consumed in normal food quantities. However, it is high in potassium, and excessive consumption can be dangerous, especially for individuals with kidney disease.

Yes, consuming large amounts of cream of tartar can cause hyperkalemia (excessive potassium levels), which may lead to serious side effects like irregular heartbeat and muscle weakness.

Metoprolol tartrate is a prescription medication used to treat heart conditions and is safe when taken as prescribed by a doctor. It is not a food additive and can have significant side effects.

Individuals with kidney disease, heart failure, or those on medications that affect potassium levels should be particularly cautious with high-potassium tartrates like cream of tartar. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor regarding any pharmaceutical tartrates.

No, tartrate is not the same as tartrazine. Tartrate is a salt of tartaric acid, while tartrazine (Yellow No. 5) is a synthetic food dye. Some people have sensitivities to tartrazine, which is unrelated to tartrates.

Yes, the small, harmless crystals sometimes found in wine bottles are potassium bitartrate, a naturally occurring tartrate from the winemaking process. They are harmless but are often removed during modern winemaking.

Tartaric acid is the parent organic acid, which occurs naturally. A tartrate is a salt or ester of tartaric acid, like cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate) or Rochelle salt (sodium potassium tartrate).

L-carnitine tartrate is a dietary supplement and is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately. Its use, especially in higher doses, should be discussed with a doctor, particularly for those with underlying health conditions.