Ingredient · E330

Regulates Tartness

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Manufacturers add citric acid to foods and beverages to regulate acidity and provide a …

What it is

Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in citrus fruits like lemons and limes. It is produced commercially through the fermentation of carbohydrates by microorganisms, such as Aspergillus niger.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add citric acid to foods and beverages to regulate acidity and provide a tart, sour flavor. It also acts as a preservative by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and as an antioxidant to maintain freshness. It is commonly found in soft drinks, candies, jams, and processed fruits and vegetables.

Health notes

Citric acid is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a natural component of the body's energy-producing metabolic pathways. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated citric acid and found it safe for consumption. At typical intake levels found in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects.

Allergen info

Citric acid is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Regulates Tartness

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The Minute Maid Company Minute Maid, Sparkling Juice Drink, Mixed Berry, Mixed Berry Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 6kcal 0Protein 0Fat 1.6Carbs The Minute Maid Company Ecto Cooler Drink, Citrus Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 45kcal 0Protein 0Fat 11.9Carbs The Minute Maid Company Hi-C, Ecto Cooler, Ghostbusters Drink, Citrus, Citrus Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 44kcal 0Protein 0Fat 12.1Carbs The Minute Maid Company Cherry Limeade Flavored Light Juice Blend, Cherry Limeade Soda 2kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0.4Carbs

The Minute Maid Company Pina Colada Mixers Alcohol High in added sugars — 64% DV per serving 283kcal 0Protein 6.7Fat 56.7Carbs Hi-C Variety Pack Cartons, 6 Fl Oz, 40 Pack Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 23kcal 0Protein 0Fat 5.7Carbs The Coca-Cola Company Minute Maid Sparkling Mixed Berry Bottle, 16.9 fl oz Non Alcoholic Beverages Ready to Drink 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0Carbs The Minute Maid Company Pina Colada Can Mixer, Pia Colada Alcohol High in added sugars — 64% DV per serving 283kcal 0Protein 6.7Fat 56.7Carbs The Minute Maid Company Strawberry Daiguiri, Strawberry Alcohol High in added sugars — 60% DV per serving 200kcal 0Protein 0Fat 51.7Carbs The Minute Maid Company Hi-C Orange Lavaburst Cartons, 6 Fl Oz, 8 Pack, Orange Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving 23kcal 0Protein 0Fat 5.7Carbs The Minute Maid Company Zero Sugar Lemonade Frozen Fruit & Fruit Juice Concentrates 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0.4Carbs The Minute Maid Company Zero Sugar Pink Lemonade Frozen Fruit & Fruit Juice Concentrates 2kcal 0Protein 0Fat 0.8Carbs

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.