malic acid

This term refers to a specific organic compound primarily associated with the sharp, tart flavor profile of pome fruits. In a culinary or food science context, it is often contrasted with citric acid, which provides a more "bright" or "citrusy" acidity, whereas malic acid is perceived as a more lingering, "green" sourness.

As a chemical compound, it is treated as an uncountable mass noun. It does not have a plural form in standard scientific or common usage, as it refers to the substance itself rather than individual units of the acid.