In pharmaceuticals fumaric acid derivatives are used in the treatment of conditions such as psoriasis and multiple sclerosis due to their immunomodulatory properties. In the chemical industry it is used in the production of resins plastics and coatings as well as in unsaturated polyester resins. Additionally it finds use in cosmetics and personal care products as a pH regulator.

The purpose of fumaric acid is mainly related to its ability to act as an acidulant and stabilizing agent. Due to its strong acidity and low hygroscopic nature it is widely used to control pH levels enhance flavor and improve the shelf life of various

Fumaric acid is an organic compound belonging to the class of dicarboxylic acids. It occurs naturally in small amounts in plants fungi and lichens and appears as a white crystalline solid with a slightly fruity taste. It is the trans-isomer of butenedioic acid which gives it greater stability compared to its counterpart maleic acid.