Ingredient · E330

Citric

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Citric acid is widely used as a flavor enhancer to provide a tart or …

What it is

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. It is commercially produced by the fermentation of sugars, typically from corn or other plant sources, using specific strains of the mold Aspergillus niger.

Why it's used

Citric acid is widely used as a flavor enhancer to provide a tart or sour taste, and as a preservative to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth. It also functions as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, and antioxidant in a variety of foods and beverages, including jams, jellies, candies, and processed meats.

Health notes

In the U.S., citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated citric acid and found it safe for consumption. At typical dietary levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Some individuals may experience mild digestive upset if they consume very large amounts.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Citric

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Red Gold Red Gold Tomato Juice +C 46oz Non Alcoholic Beverages Ready to Drink High in sodium — 27% DV per serving 21kcal 0.8Protein 0Fat 5Carbs General Mills, Inc. Chex, Big Crispy Puffs Multigrain Chips, Mesquite BBQ, Mesquite BBQ Chips, Pretzels & Snacks 500kcal 3.6Protein 25Fat 60.7Carbs World Foods Products Inc. World Food Products, Gummi Worms, Sour, Sour Candy 333kcal 4.8Protein 0Fat 76.2Carbs Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Wegmans, Small Curd Cottage Cheese, Pineapple, Pineapple Cheese 88kcal 8.0Protein 0Fat 14.2Carbs Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Small Curd Cottage Cheese Cheese 71kcal 9.7Protein 0.9Fat 5.3Carbs

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Wegmans, Cottage Cheese Cheese 62kcal 9.7Protein 0Fat 5.3Carbs Chef Merito, Inc. Adobo Tamales Verdes, Mild Seasoning Mixes, Salts, Marinades & Tenderizers 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs Lee-Thompson-Fawcett Company Elderberry Jelly Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 250kcal 0Protein 0Fat 65Carbs Lee-Thompson-Fawcett Company Jam, Pineapple Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 250kcal 0Protein 0Fat 70Carbs Lee-Thompson-Fawcett Company Preserves, Peach Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 250kcal 0Protein 0Fat 70Carbs Lee-Thompson-Fawcett Company Preserves, Strawberry Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 250kcal 0Protein 0Fat 65Carbs Lee-Thompson-Fawcett Company Taste The Fruit 1St Preserves, Hot Pepper Peach Jam, Jelly & Fruit Spreads 250kcal 0Protein 0Fat 65Carbs

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.