•Natural Preservative: Citric acid has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in food and beverages. It is commonly used as a natural preservative to extend the shelf life of products like jams, canned fruits, soft drinks, and salad dressings.
•Acidulant: Citric acid is widely used as an acidulant in food and beverage manufacturing. It provides a tart, acidic flavor that enhances the taste of many foods and drinks, including candies, fruit-flavored snacks, carbonated beverages, and sour candies.
•Antioxidant: Citric acid has antioxidant properties that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
•Flavor Enhancer: Citric acid acts as a flavor enhancer, improving the taste and aroma of food and beverages. It adds a bright, refreshing acidity to dishes and can help balance the flavors of sweet and savory recipes.
•Chelating Agent: Citric acid is a chelating agent, meaning it can bind to metal ions like calcium, magnesium, and iron. In food processing, citric acid is used to chelate metal ions in water, preventing them from reacting with other ingredients and forming undesirable precipitates or off-flavors.
•pH Adjuster: Citric acid is commonly used to adjust the pH of food and beverage products. It can lower the pH of acidic foods to enhance their tartness and stability or raise the pH of alkaline products to improve their flavor and texture.
•Cleaning Agent: Citric acid is used as a natural cleaning agent in household and personal care products. It effectively removes mineral deposits, soap scum, and limescale from surfaces like countertops, tiles, and showerheads. It is also found in dishwasher detergents, laundry detergents, and toilet bowl cleaners.
•Skin Care: Citric acid is used in skincare products like exfoliating scrubs, facial peels, and anti-aging creams. It helps promote skin cell turnover, brighten complexion, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.