Ingredient · E330

Citric Acid Lactic Acid

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

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

What it is

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits like lemons and limes. It is commercially produced by fermenting a sugar source, such as corn or sugarcane, with specific strains of the mold Aspergillus niger. This process yields a pure, crystalline powder.

Why it's used

Citric acid is primarily used as an acidity regulator, flavor enhancer, and preservative in a wide variety of foods and beverages. It provides a tart, sour taste and helps to balance sweetness. It is commonly found in soft drinks, candies, jams, jellies, and processed foods.

Health notes

In the United States, citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is also evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. At typical consumption levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. While some individuals may experience mild digestive upset if they consume very large amounts, it is not considered a common allergen.

Allergen info

Citric acid is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA, nor does it contain gluten. It is considered safe for individuals with these allergies.

Products containing Citric Acid Lactic Acid

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Herr Foods Inc. Herr's, Potato Chips, Cheddar, Sour Cream, Cheddar, Sour Cream Chips, Pretzels & Snacks High in sodium — 23% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 560kcal 10Protein 34Fat 56Carbs Wakefern Food Corporation Beef & Ricotta Beef Meat Sauce With Tomatoes, Oregano & Basil, Stacked With Three Layers Of House-Made Pasta, Ricotta, Parmesan & Romano Cheeses Traditional Homestyle Lasagna, Beef & Ricotta Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 125kcal 6.8Protein 4.4Fat 14.1Carbs Land O'Lakes, Inc. Drean's, French Onion Dip Dips & Salsa 200kcal 3.3Protein 16.7Fat 6.7Carbs

Walgreens Co. Nice!, Cherry Sours Candy 375kcal 0Protein 0Fat 92.5Carbs Weis Markets, Inc. Vegetable & Cheese Lasagna Freshly Made Pasta With Ricotta, Mozzarella, Corn, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Mushrooms, Onions, Carrots, Spinach And A Creamy Cheese Sauce, Vegetable & Cheese Lasagna Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 30% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving 156kcal 7.2Protein 7.2Fat 14.8Carbs Casey's General Stores, Inc. Crunchy Cheese Sticks Snacks, Crunchy Cheese Other Snacks 536kcal 3.6Protein 32.1Fat 57.1Carbs Weis Markets, Inc. Meat Lasagna Pasta Layered With Beef, Tomato Sauce And Mozzarella Cheese, Meat Lasagna Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 34% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 132kcal 7.2Protein 5.2Fat 14Carbs The Hillshire Brands Company Sausage, Egg & Cheese Toaster Popups, Toaster Sausage, Egg & Cheese Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 354kcal 10.8Protein 21.5Fat 29.2Carbs

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.