Tartaric acid

Tartaric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many plants, particularly grapes. It is best known for its role in winemaking, where it helps stabilize wine and prevent crystallization. In cooking, it's used as a stabilizer for egg whites and to add tartness to food. Tartaric acid also appears in baking powder as cream of tartar, which helps improve the texture of baked goods. Besides its culinary uses, it has applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Its unique properties make it valuable in various industries, highlighting its versatility beyond just food.