Citric Acid

Product: Citric Acid

Chemical Formula: C6H8O7

Information about the product:

• Naturally Occurring: Citric acid is a natural acid found in various citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges.
• Flavor Enhancer: It is widely used as a food additive due to its sour taste, which enhances the flavor of many food and beverage products.
• pH Adjuster: Citric acid is an effective pH regulator and can be used to adjust the acidity of food and cosmetic formulations.
• Chelating Agent: It has chelating properties, meaning it can bind to metal ions, which helps prevent oxidation and maintain the stability of products.
• Preservative: Citric acid acts as a natural preservative, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi in food and cosmetic products.

Information for the sector of utilization of the product:

1. Food and Beverage Industry:

• Acidulant: Citric acid is widely used as an acidulant in food and beverages to provide a tart flavor. It is commonly found in soft drinks, candies, jams, and sauces.
• Flavoring Agent: It enhances the taste and aroma of various food products, including gelatin desserts, fruit juices, and carbonated beverages.
• Canning and Preservation: Citric acid is used in canning fruits and vegetables to preserve their color, texture, and nutritional content.

2. Pharmaceutical Industry:

• Excipient: Citric acid is used as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, acting as a stabilizer, pH adjuster, or flavoring agent in certain medications and syrups.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products:

• Skin Care: Citric acid is incorporated into skincare products like cleansers, toners, and exfoliants for its exfoliating and brightening properties.
• Hair Care: It is used in shampoos and conditioners to adjust pH, improve hair manageability, and remove mineral deposits.
• Bath and Body Products: Citric acid is utilized in bath bombs, bath salts, and shower gels for its effervescent and pH-balancing effects.

4. Cleaning and Household Products:

• Cleaning Agent: Citric acid is an effective natural cleaning agent that can remove hard water stains, mineral deposits, and soap scum from surfaces.
• Descaling Agent: It is used in descaling products for coffee machines, kettles, and other appliances to remove mineral buildup.

5. Industrial Applications:

• Metal Cleaning and Passivation: Citric acid is employed in industrial processes for metal cleaning, passivation, and removal of rust or scale from metal surfaces.
• Water Treatment: It is used in water treatment systems to control pH levels, prevent scale formation, and remove metal ions.

6. Agriculture and Horticulture:

• Soil Acidification: Citric acid can be used to adjust the pH of soil in agricultural and horticultural practices, particularly for acid-loving plants.

7. Laboratory and Research:

• Analytical Chemistry: Citric acid is utilized as a reagent in various laboratory analyses, including complexometric titrations and determination of metal ions.

8. Textile Industry:

• Dyeing and Printing: Citric acid is used in textile dyeing and printing processes as a pH regulator and fixing agent for certain dyes.

9. Animal Feed:

• Acidifier: Citric acid is added to animal feed to improve digestibility, enhance nutrient absorption, and promote animal growth.

10. Flavor and Fragrance Industry:

• Flavor Enhancer: Citric acid is employed in the production of artificial flavors and fragrances, enhancing their taste and aroma.

It is important to follow industry-specific regulations, guidelines, and safety precautions when utilizing citric acid in various sectors to ensure its proper and safe use.