Citric Acid Overview:
Citric acid (C6H8O7) is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and limes. It is commonly used in food and beverage production, as well as in various household and industrial applications. Citric acid is known for its sour taste and is widely used as a flavoring agent, preservative, and chelating agent.
Key Characteristics:
- Weak organic acid
- Crystalline solid with a sour taste
- Highly water-soluble
Applications:
- Food and Beverage Industry: Citric acid is widely used as a flavoring agent, acidity regulator, and preservative in food and beverage products, including soft drinks, candies, jams, and sauces.
- Household Cleaners: It is utilized in household cleaners and detergents for its chelating properties, which help remove mineral deposits and improve cleaning effectiveness.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: Citric acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient in tablet formulations and as a buffering agent in liquid medications.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: It is added to cosmetics, skincare products, and personal care items as a pH adjuster, antioxidant, and fragrance enhancer.
- Industrial Applications: Citric acid is used in various industrial processes, such as water treatment, metal cleaning, and as a descaling agent for boilers and pipelines.
Hazards:
- Generally regarded as safe for consumption in small quantities.
- Skin and eye irritation may occur upon direct contact with concentrated solutions.
- Inhalation of dust or aerosols may cause respiratory irritation.
- Prolonged or excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or tooth erosion.
