Citrus fruits such as lemons and limes have the highest quantities of naturally occurring citric acid, according to research from Other natural sources include tangerines, oranges, grapefruits, pineapples, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, and berries. People often use citric acid in processed food and household products. Because of this, scientists developed a synthetic form of it using the fungus Aspergillus niger , or black mold.
It is known as manufactured citric acid MCA. MCA is one of the most common food additives. In addition, it is used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries and in cleaning detergents and softening agents. While MCA has the same chemical formula as naturally occurring citric acid, it can contain remnants of black mold.
This can trigger allergies or unwanted effects when consumed. Citric acid is a common additive because of its many benefits and minimal environmental impact. The three main industries that use citric acid are food, cosmetics, and cleaning products. Citric acid acts as a preservative in many processed foods, keeping them fresh. It does this by slowing or helping prevent the formation of bacteria, mold, yeast, and fungus. This delays how quickly food spoils, increasing its shelf life.
Additionally, it can help balance the pH level, or acidity, of a food or beverage. For example, when manufacturers add citric acid to wine, it improves low acidity and taste. Citric acid provides many benefits when added to skincare products. It can brighten skin, minimize fine lines, and even skin tone. Manufacturers also use citric acid as an additive in hairspray, deodorant, and body spray.
It preserves cosmetics and personal care products to ensure they do not grow mold, bacteria, or fungus. Because citric acid is effective at killing harmful bacteria , it is a beneficial addition to cleaning products.
It also has brightening properties that are useful for stain removal. Manufacturers commonly use alpha-hydroxy acids AHAs in skin care products because of their resurfacing properties. As citric acid is a common form of AHA , it can benefit the skin. Individuals with dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or scars may find citric acid particularly beneficial.
Dark spots are areas of skin with higher amounts of melanin , and scars are areas of collagen fibers that form scar tissue. The scar tissue has a different texture and appearance than the rest of the skin. When used on the skin, AHAs peel small layers of the skin away. Over time, this can remove all hyperpigmentation and scarring, leaving behind skin with a more even tone. Sodium citrate, a salt of citric acid, is used in lipstick, soap, and in detergent. Citric acid and its salts can be used to preserve cosmetics and personal care products, and to help adjust their pH level.
Medical uses Citric acid is used to help kill harmful bacteria, as well as infections on the surface of the skin that can be common in people with diabetes, the elderly and people who smoke. Citric acid also can be combined with sodium citrate and potassium citrate to lower acid levels in the urine to help prevent gout attacks.
Antioxidant Antioxidants , which are derived from citric acid, can help keep food edible over a longer period of time.
For example, sprinkling lemon juice, which contains citric acid, over apples or bananas can help prevent them from turning brown. Ascorbic acid , better known as Vitamin C, is also found in citric acid and is often used to help protect and preserve soft drinks and meats. Cleaning products Citric acid may be added to commercial cleaning products , as it can help remove hard water build-up on dishes and glassware. Some commercial products that contain citric acid are water-based and can cause corrosion on metals.
To minimize and prevent rust, dry the metal after cleaning it. Black mold efficiently converts sugars into citric acid and its fermentation also is generally recognized as safe by FDA under its Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Because excessive amounts of citric acid may cause tooth enamel to dissolve overtime, the Academy of General Dentistry states that foods containing citric acid should be consumed in moderation and recommends rinsing the mouth after eating or drinking food and beverages that contain citric acid.
Citric acid can be used in place of salt in sour bread recipes like sourdough and rye. Most often, no more than 1 tablespoon of citric acid will be needed. It can also be used when preparing game meat to help eliminate any bacteria: Spray a solution of 1 ounce citric acid with 1 quart water prior to cooking.
Be mindful that the acid is an irritant to the eyes as well as the skin with prolonged exposure, so take caution when using. Citric acid adds a sour taste to dishes and has a slightly tart, refreshing flavor, which balances the sweetness in sodas, teas, juices, and other drinks. Unless making your own cheese, it may be hard to come by a variety of recipes calling for citric acid.
But those that include vinegar or lemon juice on the ingredient list—like certain soups and pickled foods—are good candidates for using the sour powdered substance.
Citric acid can be bought in powder form and is usually available in stores with other home canning supplies, as well as in natural food stores or health food stores along with other vitamins and dietary supplements.
In some grocery stores, citric acid is sold in small shakers and labeled as "sour salt. Citric acid is packaged in pouches, tubs, and canisters, and is available in bulk. Store citric acid in its original container in a cool, dry place. From the date of manufacturing, it has a shelf life of three years once opened and will stay stable for at least five years unopened.
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