Understanding What Does Cream of Tartar Do If You Drink It?

Cream of tartar is a common ingredient found in many kitchens, primarily used in baking and cooking [1]. However, its properties mean it should only be consumed in typical culinary quantities [2].

Quick Summary

Cream of tartar is a baking ingredient used for stabilization and leavening. It should not be consumed directly in large quantities.

Key Points

• Culinary Ingredient: Cream of tartar is primarily used in baking and cooking for specific functions [1].

• Stabilizer: It helps stabilize whipped egg whites [3].

• Anti-Crystallization: It prevents sugar crystals from forming in syrups and candies [3].

• Leavening Agent: It works with baking soda to help baked goods rise [3].

• Use as Directed: Cream of tartar should only be consumed in the small amounts specified in recipes [2].

• Avoid Direct Ingestion: Consuming large quantities directly is not its intended use [2].

• Safe Storage: Store cream of tartar safely like any other kitchen ingredient [2].

What is Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar, chemically known as potassium bitartrate, is an acidic salt that is a byproduct of winemaking [1]. It's a fine white powder widely used in the culinary world for its unique properties.

Common Culinary Uses

Cream of tartar has several practical applications in the kitchen:

• Stabilizing Egg Whites: It helps to stabilize whipped egg whites, increasing their volume and heat tolerance, which is essential for meringues and soufflés [3].
• Preventing Sugar Crystallization: In candy making and syrup production, a pinch of cream of tartar can prevent sugar from forming crystals, resulting in a smoother texture [3].
• Activating Baking Soda: As an acid, it reacts with alkaline baking soda to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise when heat is applied [3].

These uses involve small quantities of cream of tartar, incorporated into larger recipes.

Why Direct Consumption of Large Amounts is Not Recommended

While safe for its intended use in cooking, consuming cream of tartar directly in large amounts is strongly discouraged [2]. It is important to understand that food ingredients designed for specific culinary purposes are not always meant for direct ingestion in significant quantities.

Comparison: Culinary Use vs. Direct Ingestion

It's helpful to see the difference between using cream of tartar as intended and consuming it directly:

Aspect	Culinary Use (Small Amounts in Recipes)	Direct Ingestion (Large, Undiluted Amounts)
Purpose	Ingredient to aid in baking/cooking processes [3].	Not an intended use; potentially for unverified purposes [2].
Quantity	Typically teaspoons or less within a full dish [1].	Potentially multiple tablespoons or more [2].
Context	Integrated into a recipe with other ingredients [1].	Consumed on its own, sometimes with liquid [2].
Recommendation	Standard and safe culinary practice [1].	Not recommended and potentially problematic [2].

Conclusion: Use as Intended

Cream of tartar is a valuable tool in the kitchen when used correctly in recipes. Its properties make it useful for stabilizing, leavening, and preventing crystallization. However, it is not intended for direct consumption in large amounts. Always use cream of tartar as directed in recipes and store it safely away from direct access.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cream of tartar made from?

Cream of tartar is a natural byproduct of the winemaking process, chemically known as potassium bitartrate [1].

Is cream of tartar the same as baking powder?

No, cream of tartar is an acidic component that is combined with baking soda to create baking powder. Baking powder is a complete leavening agent [3].

Can I use cream of tartar as a cleaning agent?

Cream of tartar can be used in some cleaning applications, often combined with other ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice, due to its acidic nature.

Does cream of tartar have a taste?

Cream of tartar has a distinctly acidic or tart taste.

How should I store cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness [1].

Can cream of tartar go bad?

While it doesn't spoil in the traditional sense, cream of tartar can lose its potency over time, especially if not stored properly.

Is cream of tartar a common ingredient?

Yes, cream of tartar is a relatively common ingredient used in a variety of baking and cooking recipes [1].