Kemiex is an all-in-one market information, purchasing and sales platform for animal and human nutrition raw materials. In the following series of articles, we will explain the functions and uses of products that can be found in the Kemiex marketplace. On this occasion, we are going to explain the benefits of Citric Acid:
What is Citric Acid used for?
Citric acid is a weak organic acid that is commonly found in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and limes. It has a wide range of uses across various industries. In this article, we will explore the uses of Citric Acid in more detail.
Which are the different types of Citric Acid?
There is only one type of Citric Acid, which is a weak organic acid that occurs naturally in many fruits, vegetables, and other foods. However, there are different forms of Citric Acid that are used in different applications, such as food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. Here are three main forms of Citric Acid:
Anhydrous Citric Acid: Anhydrous Citric Acid is the purest form of Citric Acid, containing no water. It is a white crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water, making it a popular choice for use in food and beverage production, as well as in personal care products and cleaning agents.
Monohydrate Citric Acid: Monohydrate Citric Acid is Citric Acid that contains one molecule of water. It is also a white crystalline powder, but it is less soluble in water than anhydrous Citric Acid. Monohydrate Citric Acid is used in food and beverage production, as well as in pharmaceuticals.
Citric Acid Solution: Citric acid solution is a liquid form of Citric Acid that is used in many applications, such as in food and beverage production, as well as in cleaning agents and personal care products. The concentration of Citric Acid in the solution can vary, depending on the intended use.
In terms of their applications, anhydrous Citric Acid is often used in dry mixes, instant beverages, and other products that require rapid dissolution, while monohydrate Citric Acid is commonly used in effervescent tablets and other pharmaceutical products. Citric Acid solutions are typically used in liquid products, such as beverages, sauces, and cleaning agents.
Overall, the different forms of Citric Acid are tailored to different applications, but they all share the same chemical properties and are derived from the same natural source.
What are the main uses of Citric Acid?
1. Food Industry:
One of the primary uses of Citric Acid is in the food industry. It is commonly used as a natural preservative and flavour enhancer in a wide range of food products, including soft drinks, candy, baked goods, and processed meats. Citric Acid is also used to give a sour taste to foods and drinks, as well as to balance the pH levels of certain foods.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry:
Citric Acid is also commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry. It is used as an excipient in the production of tablets and capsules, helping to bind ingredients together and make them easier to swallow. Citric Acid is also used as a pH adjuster and buffering agent in many pharmaceutical formulations.
3. Cleaning Products:
Citric Acid is also used in the production of cleaning products. Its ability to break down mineral deposits and dissolve hard water stains makes it an effective ingredient in many household cleaners, such as bathroom and kitchen cleaners, and dishwasher detergents.
4. Cosmetics Industry:
Citric Acid is also used in the cosmetics industry. It is used in a variety of skincare and hair care products, such as facial cleansers, shampoos, and conditioners. Its ability to exfoliate dead skin cells and regulate pH levels make it a valuable ingredient in many cosmetic formulations.
5. Other Uses:
In addition to its primary uses, Citric Acid is also used in a variety of other products and industries. It is used as a chelating agent in the production of industrial detergents and water treatment products. It is also used in the production of photographic film and as a dye fixative in the textile industry.
Which foods are the main sources of Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is a natural acid found in many fruits, vegetables, and other foods. Here are ten main sources of Citric Acid:
1. Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits are some of the richest sources of Citric Acid.
2. Berries: Berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are also high in Citric Acid.
3. Pineapple: Pineapple is a tropical fruit that contains high levels of Citric Acid.
4. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a common source of Citric Acid, and are often used in sauces and soups.
5. Peppers: Bell peppers and chilli peppers contain Citric Acid, as well as other natural acids.
6. Broccoli: Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains Citric Acid, as well as other beneficial nutrients.
7. Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts are another cruciferous vegetable that contains Citric Acid, along with vitamins and minerals.
8. Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish that contains Citric Acid, as well as other organic acids.
9. Cheese: Some types of cheese, such as cheddar and parmesan, contain small amounts of Citric Acid.
10. Wine: Wine is produced by the fermentation of grapes, which contain Citric Acid. The level of Citric Acid in wine can vary depending on the type and age of the wine.
Overall, Citric Acid is a natural and widely available ingredient that is used in many food products and beverages as a flavouring agent, preservative, and acidulant.
Recommended daily intake (RDI) of Citric Acid
There is no recommended daily intake (RDI) of Citric Acid, as it is not considered an essential nutrient. However, Citric Acid is generally recognized as safe for consumption in small amounts, and it is commonly used as a food additive to enhance flavour, preserve freshness, and regulate acidity.
The amount of Citric Acid that is safe for consumption depends on various factors, such as the individual’s age, weight, and overall health status, as well as the specific product or food in which it is used. It is important to follow the recommended usage levels and guidelines provided by the manufacturers of food and beverage products that contain Citric Acid.
What are the main benefits of Citric Acid for animals?
Citric Acid is not typically used as a dietary supplement for animals, but it is commonly used as a food additive to enhance the flavour and preserve the freshness of animal feed. Citric Acid can also help to regulate the pH levels of animal feed and water, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption in animals.
Additionally, Citric Acid can be used as a cleaning agent in animal facilities to help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and promote a clean and healthy environment. However, it is important to use Citric Acid in appropriate amounts and according to recommended guidelines, as excessive use can potentially be harmful to animals.
Where to buy bulk Citric Acid Anhydrous or Monohydrate Citric Acid and get market information?
In Kemiex, we offer a safe and private online environment to buy and sell raw materials for the Feed, Food, Vet and Pharma industries. We also offer market information such as Price Trends, Trade Flows and Market News for all the micro-ingredients of the mentioned industries.