Citric acid is a weak organic acid naturally found in citrus fruits. It is widely used as a flavoring agent, preservative, and antioxidant in the food and beverage industry. In addition to its food applications, citric acid has various industrial uses, including as a cleaning agent, chelating agent, and in the production of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Type:
- Organic Acid: Citric acid is a naturally occurring weak organic acid.
- Food Additive: Widely used in the food and beverage industry.
- Cleaning Agent: Effective for various cleaning applications.
- Chelating Agent: Binds to metal ions, making it useful for removing mineral deposits.
Material:
- Naturally Occurring: Primarily found in citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges.
- Synthetic Production: Can also be produced commercially through microbial fermentation.
- Appearance: Colorless crystals or white crystalline powder.
Usage:
- Food and Beverage:
- Flavoring agent in foods and beverages.
- Preservative to prevent microbial growth.
- Antioxidant to maintain freshness.
- Cleaning:
- Removes limescale and mineral deposits from coffee makers, kettles, and other appliances.
- Cleans and polishes metals.
- Removes rust and tarnish.
- Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals:
- Used in skincare products and pharmaceuticals due to its mild acidity and chelating properties.
How to Use:
- Cleaning:
- Limescale Removal: Dissolve citric acid powder in water according to the desired concentration. Soak the affected area or run the solution through the appliance.
- Metal Cleaning: Create a paste with citric acid powder and water. Apply to the metal surface, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.
- Food and Beverage:
- Use as directed in recipes for flavoring or preservation.
