Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in citrus fruits like lemons and limes, known for its sour taste. It is widely used as a natural preservative, flavoring agent, antioxidant, and cleaning agent. While occurring naturally, industrial citric acid is commonly produced via fermentation.
Key Aspects of Citric Acid:
- Sources: Naturally found in citrus fruits, berries, and pineapples. Commercial production usually involves fermenting corn or sugar with Aspergillus niger mold.
- Food & Beverage Use: Used to add a sour flavor to candies and soft drinks, and acts as a preservative to prevent food spoilage.
- Cleaning & Industrial Use: A popular, eco-friendly cleaner for removing rust, limescale, and soap scum.
- Health & Beauty: Used in skincare as an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) for exfoliation and skin turnover. It is also found in supplements (as citrates) and pharmaceuticals.
- Safety: It is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.