Ingredient · E330

Contains Citric Acid

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Citric acid is primarily used as a flavoring agent 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 through the fermentation of carbohydrates by specific molds, most commonly Aspergillus niger. It is a widely used ingredient in the food industry.

Why it's used

Citric acid is primarily used as a flavoring agent to provide a tart or sour taste and as a preservative to extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth. It also acts as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, and antioxidant. It is commonly found in beverages, candies, jams, jellies, and canned fruits and vegetables.

Health notes

In the United States, citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated citric acid and found it safe for consumption. At typical dietary levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Research has explored its potential role in preventing kidney stones, but more studies are needed.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Contains Citric Acid

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Conagra Brands MARIE CALLENDERS Country Fried Pork Chop Dinners, 15 OZ Ready-Made Combination Meals High in sodium — 46% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 108kcal 4.5Protein 4.5Fat 12.9Carbs Vegetarian Chili With Beans Topco Associates, Inc. Vegetarian Chili With Beans Chili & Stew High in sodium — 34% DV per serving 42kcal 2.4Protein 0.2Fat 7.8Carbs Hormel Foods Corporation Red Chili With Beans Chili & Stew High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 97kcal 5.7Protein 2.8Fat 12.2Carbs The David Randall Co. La Victoria, Mild Salsa, Roasted Pepper Dips & Salsa 33kcal 0Protein 0Fat 6.7Carbs Hormel Foods Corporation Carnitas Verde Cooked & Prepared High in sodium — 34% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 30% DV per serving 129kcal 20.7Protein 4.3Fat 1.4Carbs Angus Beef Chili, Angus Hormel Foods Corporation Angus Beef Chili, Angus Chili & Stew High in sodium — 39% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 22% DV per serving 140kcal 6.8Protein 9.8Fat 5.9Carbs Bread & Circus Inc. Whole Foods Market, Quiche Other Deli High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 40% DV per serving 221kcal 4.9Protein 16.4Fat 13.1Carbs Bread & Circus Inc. Whole Foods Market, Quiche Lorraine Other Deli High in sodium — 24% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 45% DV per serving 301kcal 11.7Protein 21.4Fat 14.6Carbs Raley's Turkey Chili Chili & Stew High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 85kcal 6.1Protein 1.2Fat 12.2Carbs Hormel Foods Corporation Chili With Beans Entrees, Sides & Small Meals High in sodium — 30% DV per serving 106kcal 6.5Protein 2.9Fat 13.5Carbs Supervalu, Inc. Turkey Chili With Beans Chili & Stew High in sodium — 26% DV per serving 81kcal 6.1Protein 1.0Fat 12.2Carbs La Victoria Foods Inc. Mild Roasted Pepper Salsa, Mild Roasted Pepper Dips & Salsa 33kcal 0Protein 0Fat 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.