Ingredient
Citric Acid & Sodium Citrate
What is Citric Acid & Sodium Citrate?
Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in citrus fruits, while sodium citrate is a derivative formed by neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide. These compounds are often produced synthetically through the fermentation of sugar by certain molds.
Citric acid and sodium citrate are used in foods and beverages to add a sour flavor and to act as a preservative by adjusting acidity levels. There's no strong evidence linking these compounds to adverse health effects under general food use conditions. People with sensitivity to acidic foods might experience mild irritation.
When you find citric acid and sodium citrate on a label, they're usually considered safe for the vast majority of consumers, used both for taste and preservation.
Commonly found in: soft drinks, candies, baked goods, processed meats, prebiotic sodas, jams and jellies
Benefits
- Acts as a natural preservative by controlling acidity.
- Enhances flavor by providing a tangy or sour taste.
Both citric acid and sodium citrate are recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in foods.
Research indicates these compounds are widely used in the food industry with minimal health risks when consumed in typical amounts.
Both ingredients are synthetically produced and are considered vegan.
Scout's take
Standard acidity regulators, well tolerated at beverage levels.
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