Loading…
Answer: Lactic Acid is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Yoplait Yogurt, Kraft Ranch Dressing, Vlasic Pickles.
TL;DR: Lactic Acid is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (preservative).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called E270. (E270) CAS 50-21-5.
Other names: E270, 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, INS 270
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Yoplait Yogurt, Kraft Ranch Dressing, Vlasic Pickles, Oscar Mayer Deli Meat, Gatorade |
| CAS number | 50-21-5 |
Lactic acid is an organic acid naturally produced during fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria. It gives fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese, and sauerkraut their characteristic tangy flavor. Commercial lactic acid used in food is produced by bacterial fermentation of glucose or lactose, or in some cases by chemical synthesis.
Acts as a pH regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer in dairy products, olives, pickles, and condiments; also used as an antimicrobial agent in meat processing.
Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of human metabolism (produced during anaerobic exercise). It is generally recognized as safe at food additive levels. Excessive consumption of foods acidified with lactic acid could theoretically contribute to dental erosion, as with all acidulants. For individuals with rare inborn errors of lactate metabolism, dietary lactic acid may require monitoring.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Lactic Acidwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Citric acid, vinegar (acetic acid), and natural fermentation (sourdough, pickling) provide natural acidification.
It can be derived from dairy-based lactose fermentation or plant-based glucose. Vegans should look for non-dairy sources.
Yes. It is naturally produced in the human body and has an excellent safety record as a food additive.
Yes — it is the primary acid produced by lactic acid bacteria in yogurt, cheese, kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles.
No. It is universally approved.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Lactic Acid or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.
Audited products that don't contain Lactic Acid.
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.