Understanding the Benefits and Risks of Eating Cream of Tartar

January 12, 2026 •

2 min read

Cream of tartar, a byproduct of the winemaking process, is classified as 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) by the FDA when used in small, appropriate amounts as a food additive. However, many popular claims promoting its consumption for various health benefits are largely unsubstantiated and carry significant risks when ingested in large doses.

Quick Summary

Cream of tartar's potential benefits largely stem from its potassium content, but high-dose ingestion is extremely dangerous due to the risk of hyperkalemia. Many purported home remedies lack scientific backing, and caution is essential.

Key Points

High Potassium Content: Cream of tartar is rich in potassium, but ingesting large amounts is dangerous and can lead to hyperkalemia.
Hyperkalemia Risk: High potassium levels from excessive consumption can cause severe and life-threatening side effects, including abnormal heart rhythms.
Unproven Remedies: Many popular claims about its medicinal use for acne, quitting smoking, or weight loss are not supported by scientific evidence.
Safe Culinary Use: It is safe and effective when used in small quantities as a food additive to stabilize egg whites or prevent sugar crystallization.
Consult a Doctor: Individuals with kidney issues or on specific medications should avoid supplemental potassium and consult a healthcare professional before considering its use.
Safer Alternatives: For those needing more potassium, a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the safest and most recommended approach.

What is Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar, also known by its chemical name potassium bitartrate, is an acidic, white crystalline powder that is a byproduct of winemaking. This compound is a staple in many kitchen pantries, primarily recognized for its culinary applications.

The Documented Effects of Cream of Tartar

Culinary Uses as an Additive

Cream of tartar is a crucial food additive with several established culinary uses. It is widely known for stabilizing whipped egg whites in various desserts. In candy making, it prevents sugar crystallization, ensuring a smoother texture. Combined with baking soda, it forms baking powder, a common leavening agent. A small amount can also help vegetables retain their vibrant color when boiled.

Potential Health Benefits and Risks

The discussion around cream of tartar's health effects primarily centers on its significant potassium content. While a diet rich in potassium can support health, there are no specific studies validating cream of tartar itself for blood pressure regulation or as a safe digestive aid. Many other purported health benefits, such as curing migraines, arthritis, acne, or aiding smoking cessation and weight loss, lack scientific evidence and are considered unsubstantiated claims that could pose a health risk if large amounts are consumed.

Comparison of Potassium Sources


Feature	Cream of Tartar (1 tsp)	Banana (1 medium)	Sweet Potato (1 medium)
Potassium (approx.)	495 mg	422 mg	542 mg
Safety Concerns	High risk of hyperkalemia if consumed in large amounts	Generally safe in normal dietary amounts	Generally safe in normal dietary amounts
Nutrient Profile	High potassium, but lacks other vitamins, minerals, and fiber	Rich in vitamins C and B6, fiber, and other minerals	Excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and other nutrients
Intended Use	Food additive, stabilizer, leavening agent	Whole food, dietary staple	Whole food, dietary staple

The Significant Dangers of High-Dose Ingestion

Consuming large amounts of cream of tartar is extremely dangerous due to the risk of hyperkalemia, a potentially fatal condition caused by excessive blood potassium levels. This can lead to severe heart rhythm abnormalities and has resulted in hospitalizations. Individuals with kidney disease, heart failure, or those taking certain medications are at a higher risk. Symptoms of potassium overdose include abdominal discomfort, muscle weakness, abnormal heart rate, nausea, and diarrhea.

The Proper Context for Use

Cream of tartar is safe when used correctly in small quantities for baking. It should not be used as a health supplement or home remedy. For increasing potassium intake, relying on natural food sources like fruits and vegetables is medically recommended and much safer.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for any health concerns or before attempting to use supplements. What Is Cream of Tartar? Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects

Frequently Asked Questions

People often claim cream of tartar can aid weight loss, clear acne, relieve migraines, and help quit smoking, but scientific evidence does not support these uses.

No, it is not recommended. While rich in potassium, ingesting large doses carries a high risk of hyperkalemia (dangerously high blood potassium), and safer food sources exist.

Hyperkalemia is a medical condition caused by excessively high blood potassium levels, which can lead to abdominal discomfort, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness.

While an older study noted a potential laxative effect, using it intentionally as a purgative is strongly discouraged due to the risk of life-threatening hyperkalemia.

The small quantities used in baking are safe and intended for stabilizing and leavening. Problems arise only when a large, deliberate amount is consumed, overwhelming the body's natural potassium regulation.

Individuals with kidney disease, heart failure, or those on certain medications that affect potassium levels should avoid consuming it in anything more than normal baking amounts, and ideally, not at all without a doctor's consent.

Excellent dietary sources of potassium include fruits and vegetables like bananas, potatoes, spinach, and avocados.

Cream of tartar has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. However, it can lose potency over time or if exposed to moisture.