Citric Acid

Drug Details

Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic compound found abundantly in citrus fruits like lemons and limes, contributing to their characteristic tart flavor. Beyond its natural presence, citric acid is widely utilized in various industries due to its preservative and flavor-enhancing properties. In the food and beverage sector, it acts as an acidulant, adding a pleasant sour taste to products such as soft drinks, candies, and jams, while also serving as a preservative to extend shelf life. In pharmaceuticals, citric acid is used to stabilize active ingredients and improve the palatability of medications. Additionally, its chelating ability makes it effective in cleaning products, where it helps remove limescale and hard water deposits. Industrially, citric acid is predominantly produced through the fermentation of sugars by the mold Aspergillus niger, a method that has been in practice since the early 20th century.