Bartek breaks ground for the world’s largest malic and fumaric acid facility

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Malic and fumeric acid add that pop of sourness, so loved by many consumers. Pic: GettyImages/kimberrywood

While malic and fumaric acid give products a sour note, the market value of the two food additives is far from bitter, with the global malic acid market expected to reach a value of $258m in 2026, while the latter is expected to soar over $650m over the next four years.

To cope with rising demand, Bartek Ingredients has commenced construction of a state-of-the-art, vertically integrated facility that will become the world’s largest malic and food-grade fumaric acid production plant.

The $160m project will double Bartek’s capacity and cement the Canadian company’s position as the global leader in the production of malic acid, fumaric acid and maleic anhydride.

Bartek currently operates two production facilities in Southern Ontario, both registered to the ISO 9001:205 standard, distributing products to more than 40 countries.

Malic acid enhances fruit flavours, masks off-notes, stabilizes pH in fruit preparations and preserves, and creates a smooth, controlled gel in baked food desserts.

Similarly, fumaric acid controls pH and provides texture and gelling properties in jellies, jams and desserts while increasing flavour stability. It also prevents caking in baking mixes, extends shelf life, improves dough machineability and acts as a flavouring agent for savoury bakes.

The new facility will also be expandable to produce new products such as buffer and fortification salts.

Engineering consulting firm WSP Global is responsible for the design and construction of the facility, expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2023.