Ingredient

Citric Acid Ascorbic Acid

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Citric acid is used as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer, especially in …

What it is

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. Ascorbic acid is the scientific name for Vitamin C. Both are often produced commercially through the fermentation of sugar by specific molds and yeasts.

Why it's used

Citric acid is used as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer, especially in beverages, candies, and canned goods. Ascorbic acid is used as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor, and as a nutrient supplement, commonly found in juices, processed meats, and baked goods.

Health notes

Both citric acid and ascorbic acid are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. They are common food components and are not associated with adverse health effects at typical dietary intake levels. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these substances. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns for the general population from their use in food.

Allergen info

Neither citric acid nor ascorbic acid are derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Citric Acid Ascorbic Acid

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Hormel Foods Corporation Hormel, Snackers, Spinach & Artichoke Dip Dips & Salsa 138kcal 3.5Protein 10.3Fat 3.5Carbs Associated Food Stores, Inc. Oat & Fiber Bread Breads & Buns 244kcal 11.1Protein 3.3Fat 53.3Carbs Associated Food Stores, Inc. Classic Bread, Potato Breads & Buns 278kcal 11.1Protein 3.3Fat 48.9Carbs Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Italian Classics Vodka Blush Sauce Prepared Pasta & Pizza Sauces High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 96kcal 2.4Protein 6.4Fat 6.4Carbs Rau Brokerage Services, Inc. Apple Butter Other Condiments 139kcal 0Protein 0Fat 38.9Carbs Weis Markets, Inc. Weis Quality, Light Juice Beverage, Orange, Orange Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 21kcal 0.4Protein 0Fat 5Carbs Phil's Cake Box Bakeries, Inc. Banana Nut Specialty Bread Breads & Buns 352kcal 5.6Protein 15.5Fat 49.3Carbs Knouse Foods Inc. Peach Premium Fruit Topping, Peach Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in added sugars — 50% DV per serving 107kcal 0.8Protein 0Fat 27.3Carbs

Cincinnati Preserving Company Thai Sweet & Spicy Garlic Grill & Finishing Sauce, Thai Sweet & Spicy Garlic Oriental, Mexican & Ethnic Sauces High in added sugars — 28% DV per serving 167kcal 0Protein 0Fat 41.7Carbs

Cincinnati Preserving Company Roasted Red Pepper & Onion Cooking & Finishing Sauce, Roasted Red Pepper & Onion Other Cooking Sauces 113kcal 0Protein 0Fat 25.8Carbs Buttercup Bakeries Inc Cream Cheese Banana Cake With Salted Caramel Frosting, Cream Cheese Banana With Salted Caramel Frosting Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving High in added sugars — 44% DV per serving 350kcal 3.8Protein 17.5Fat 47.5Carbs Casablanca La Triguena, Olives With Pimientos & Capers Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 167kcal 0Protein 13.3Fat 6.7Carbs

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.