Ingredient · E330

Natural Citric Acid

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers use citric acid primarily as an acidity regulator, flavoring agent, and preservative. It …

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 a sugar-based substrate, typically using the mold Aspergillus niger.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use citric acid primarily as an acidity regulator, flavoring agent, and preservative. It adds a tart, sour taste to foods and beverages and helps prevent spoilage by inhibiting microbial growth. It is commonly found in candies, jams, jellies, soft drinks, and processed fruits.

Health notes

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 intake levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. There are no significant controversies regarding its safety or use.

Allergen info

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

Products containing Natural Citric Acid

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NACHO MOM'S Fire Roasted Queso Cheese 36kcal 3.6Protein 0Fat 10.7Carbs LUCHIANO VISCONTI Roasted Hempseeds, Caribbean Crunch Other Grains & Seeds 560kcal 30Protein 46.7Fat 3.3Carbs LUCHIANO VISCONTI Ziggy Marley's, Hemp Rules, Roasted Hempseeds, Sea Salt & Pepper, Sea Salt & Pepper Other Grains & Seeds 560kcal 30Protein 46.7Fat 3.3Carbs LUCHIANO VISCONTI Hemp Rules, Roasted Hempseeds Other Grains & Seeds 560kcal 30Protein 46.7Fat 3.3Carbs LUCHIANO VISCONTI Roasted Hempseeds, Caribbean Crunch Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks 560kcal 30Protein 46.7Fat 3.3Carbs Ad-Visor Flatbread Crisps, Just Salt Crackers & Biscotti 459kcal 5.9Protein 17.6Fat 76.5Carbs Conagra Brands, Inc. Meatloaf Dinner Casserole, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Peas And Savory Gravy Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 23% DV per serving 137kcal 4.8Protein 7.9Fat 10.6Carbs Conagra Brands, Inc. Tater Topped Hot Dish, Beef Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 20% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 123kcal 5.7Protein 7.5Fat 8.8Carbs Integrated Supplements Collagen, Whole Body Replenishment, Mixed Berry Chocolate 354kcal 78.7Protein 0Fat 0Carbs Growers Express LLC ""Fried Rice"" Cauliflower Crumbles Chopped Cauliflower, Carrots, Celery, Onion & Broccoli In A Sweet Teriyaki Sauce With Garlic-Ginger Wonton Strips Veggie Bowl, Cauliflower Crumbles Other Deli 73kcal 0.9Protein 1.8Fat 14.6Carbs Kings Super Markets Inc Kings, Whole Grains Sprouted Rye Bread Breads & Buns 250kcal 13.3Protein 4.2Fat 41.7Carbs Ad-Visor All Natural Snack Crackers Crackers & Biscotti 557kcal 7.1Protein 21.4Fat 92.9Carbs

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.