Bitartrate
Bitartrate refers to a salt or ester of tartaric acid that contains the anion C4H5O6−. It is commonly encountered in the form of potassium bitartrate, also known as cream of tartar, which is a byproduct of wine production. The presence of bitartrate in wine can lead to the formation of crystals at the bottom of stored bottles, especially when the wine is stored at low temperatures. These crystals are harmless and do not affect the taste or quality of the wine.
Chemistry[edit | edit source]
Bitartrate ions are derived from tartaric acid, a dicarboxylic acid that is an important component in the chemistry of many living organisms. Tartaric acid can exist in several isomeric forms, but the most biologically and chemically significant isomer is L-(+)-tartaric acid. When one of the acid groups of tartaric acid is neutralized, while the other remains free, a bitartrate salt is formed. This partial neutralization can occur through reactions with bases, such as potassium or sodium hydroxide.
Production and Uses[edit | edit source]
The most common source of bitartrates is the winemaking process, where they precipitate out of wines as they ferment and age. Potassium bitartrate crystallizes out of solution and can often be found on the corks of wine bottles or as sediment in the bottom of wine barrels. In the culinary world, cream of tartar is used as a stabilizing agent for egg whites, preventing them from overcoagulating when beaten, and as a leavening agent in baking when combined with baking soda.
Health and Nutrition[edit | edit source]
Bitartrates are generally considered safe for consumption. Potassium bitartrate, in particular, can contribute to the dietary intake of potassium, an essential nutrient. However, as with all dietary supplements, it is important to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
The production and disposal of bitartrates, particularly from the winemaking industry, can have environmental impacts. However, many wineries and food producers recycle the precipitated bitartrate crystals for use in culinary applications or other industries, thereby reducing waste.
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
