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Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in citrus fruits, particularly lemons and limes. It is widely used as a food additive due to its unique properties, which include flavor enhancement, preservation, and pH regulation. As a colorless, crystalline substance, citric acid is recognized for its sour taste and is often used in both food and beverage production, as well as in various industrial applications.
Applications of Citric Acid
1. Food Preservation:
- Antimicrobial Agent: Citric acid helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, making it a popular preservation agent in products such as canned foods, sauces, and jams.
- Shelf Life Extension: By lowering pH levels, citric acid can effectively extend the shelf life of perishable items by slowing down spoilage.
2. Flavor Enhancement:
- Sour Flavor: Commonly used to add a tart or sour flavor to foods and beverages, citric acid is featured in soft drinks, candies, and even salad dressings.
- Balancing Taste: In certain products, citric acid helps balance sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
3. Acidulant in Beverages:
- Carbonated Drinks: Citric acid is frequently added to carbonated beverages to impart a refreshing tartness and improve flavor.
- Sports Drinks: It is also found in electrolyte and sports drinks, contributing to their acidity and taste.
4. pH Regulation:
- Stabilizing Agent: In food processing, citric acid is used to stabilize and maintain the desired pH levels in various products, which is crucial for both safety and quality.
5. Baking:
-Leavening Agent: Citric acid can be used as a leavening agent in baking, interacting with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide, which helps dough rise.
6. Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals:
- Beyond food applications, citric acid is also used in cosmetics and personal care products, as well as in some pharmaceutical formulations for its preservative and stabilizing properties.
Purity | 99.5 |
Shapes | White crystalline powder or particle |
CAS | 77-92-9 |
Packing | 25kg/BAG |
20GP | 26MT |
Application field | Soft drinks, sweets, fruit juices, jams, cheese, dairy products |