To Acidify

Acids are compounds that increase the acidity of a food. They can be naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables or produced industrially through fermentation or chemical synthesis. Acids are used to add tartness, enhance flavor, and preserve food.

Acids are added to foods to provide a sour or tart taste, balance sweetness, and act as preservatives by lowering pH. They are commonly found in beverages, candies, jams, jellies, and processed meats.

Acids used in food are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated many food acids and established acceptable daily intakes. At typical consumption levels, they are not associated with adverse health effects. Some acids, like citric acid, are naturally present in the body.