Randi Group and Natural Tartaric Acid: What Are the Differences Compared to the Synthetic Molecule?

Tartaric acid is an organic compound widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and technical sectors. There are two different production processes for tartaric acid: extraction from by-products of the wine industry and synthesis from a by-product of petroleum cracking, maleic anhydride. This article explores the differences between these two types of tartaric acid, delving into their origins, characteristics, and applications.

Origin and Production of Natural vs. Synthetic Tartaric Acid

Natural tartaric acid is extracted directly from natural sources, particularly from residues of winemaking. This process involves the extraction of a product already synthesized in nature during the grape ripening process.

Synthetic tartaric acid, on the other hand, is produced through industrial synthesis processes using petroleum-derived molecules. This method involves the use of catalysts and other substances to obtain a product that, despite having the same formula as the natural one, has a completely different origin.

Inside the Molecules: Characteristics of the Two Products

From a chemical perspective, the molecules of natural and synthetic tartaric acid are identical. Both exhibit the same chemical and physical properties, making it difficult to distinguish them without advanced analysis.

To be marketed, both types of tartaric acid must meet strict purity standards, which are still primarily based on the natural product’s production. European and American regulations do not make significant distinctions between the two variants, allowing their use in many industries, provided they meet current purity requirements.

Natural vs. Synthetic: Applications in Different Sectors

Natural tartaric acid is widely preferred in the food and pharmaceutical industries due to its natural origin. It is used as an additive in wine, where it enhances the taste and stability of the product. Additionally, its natural origin is seen as an added value in terms of sustainability and ethics.

Synthetic tartaric acid is mainly used in technical and industrial applications, such as in construction, where it serves as a setting retardant for plaster. In these applications, the differences between natural and synthetic tartaric acid are negligible, making the latter a cost-effective choice.

Natural and Synthetic Tartaric Acid: How to Distinguish Them

Currently, distinguishing between natural and synthetic tartaric acid requires advanced analysis, particularly isotopic analysis. These techniques can identify differences in the isotopic characteristics of carbon and oxygen, thus determining the molecule’s origin.