Ingredient · Updated
en:e330
Found in 3 products
What is en:e330?
Citric acid is a weak organic acid that naturally occurs in citrus fruits. Industrially, it is produced mostly through the fermentation of sugars by the mold Aspergillus niger.
It is widely used in food and beverages as a preservative and flavor enhancer due to its tartness. Citric acid is also used to help stabilize active ingredients in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. While generally considered safe, some research suggests it can cause tooth enamel erosion if consumed in large quantities over time.
You will often find citric acid in ingredient lists of candies, carbonated drinks, and canned foods, among other products, where it helps to balance pH levels and enhance flavors.
Commonly found in: candies, soft drinks, canned fruits, jams, jellies, cosmetics
What to watch
- High consumption may contribute to dental erosion over time.
Citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in foods.
Studies confirm its safety, but they also highlight potential dental risks with frequent high consumption.
Citric acid is typically considered vegan as it is derived from microbial fermentation.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS): Citric Acid · Citric acid and its effects on tooth enamel
Scout's take
E330, which is citric acid, is a widely used additive for acidity regulation and preservation.
More from Scout's analyses
E330 is the code for citric acid, used as an additive to enhance flavor and preserve freshness.
from the analysis of Pure Leaf Tea with Lemon 18.5 Fluid Ounce Plastic BottleAll 3 products with en:e330
Where en:e330 shows up
- Nuts 1 product
- Tea 1 product
- Dried Fruit 1 product
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