Ingredient · E330

Citic Acid

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Citric acid is widely used as a flavor enhancer, adding a tart or sour …

What it is

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. It is commercially produced through the fermentation of carbohydrate sources, such as corn or sugarcane, using specific strains of the mold Aspergillus niger. This process yields a purified, crystalline acid.

Why it's used

Citric acid is widely used as a flavor enhancer, adding a tart or sour taste to foods and beverages. It also acts as a preservative by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and molds, and as an antioxidant to prevent spoilage. You'll find it in candies, jams, soft drinks, and processed meats.

Health notes

In the U.S., citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a common component of human metabolism. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated citric acid and found it safe for consumption. There are no widespread controversies regarding its safety at typical dietary levels.

Allergen info

Citric acid is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Citic Acid

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Il Laboratorio Del Gelato Setter Mountain, Rustic Style Pasta Sauce, Roasted Garlic & Basil, Roasted Garlic & Basil Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces 56kcal 1.6Protein 0.8Fat 11.2Carbs Safeway, Inc. Dried Berries & Cherries Wholesome Snacks High in added sugars — 46% DV per serving 350kcal 0Protein 0Fat 85Carbs Wang Globalnet Surasang, Kimchi Salsa Sauce Dips & Salsa 33kcal 0Protein 0Fat 6.7Carbs Wm. Bolthouse Farms Inc. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Roasted Red Pepper Dips & Salsa 214kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat 14.3Carbs Cuatro Cinco Enterprises, LLC Mexican Style Traditional Pork Tamales Meal With Spanish Rice And Refried Pinto Beans, Mexican Style Other Deli High in sodium — 27% DV per serving 70kcal 3.1Protein 1.5Fat 13.7Carbs L. Gonzalez Enterprises Inc. Salt And Lime Churricos Flavored Corn Stixs, Salt And Lime Churricos Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 536kcal 7.1Protein 28.6Fat 60.7Carbs Ventura Foods, L.L.C. Margarine Butter & Spread High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 714kcal 0Protein 78.6Fat 0Carbs
Salt (6 products) Water (6 products) Sugar (4 products) Garlic (4 products) Natural Flavors (3 products) Citric Acid (3 products) Onion (3 products) Vinegar (2 products) Paprika (2 products) Calcium Chloride (2 products)

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.