What Is Citric Acid? Uses, Benefits, And More

What Is Citric Acid? Citric acid, a natural acid found in citrus fruits, is widely used in the food and beverage industry. WHAT.EDU.VN can help you understand its versatile nature and discover how it benefits various industries. Explore the properties, safety, and applications of this essential compound, including its role as a preservative, flavoring agent, and more. Learn about its acidity regulator and antioxidant properties today.

1. Citric Acid: A Comprehensive Overview

Citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid found in many fruits and vegetables, most notably citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. It is a weak acid with the chemical formula C6H8O7. Citric acid is used extensively as a preservative, flavoring agent, and pH regulator in the food and beverage industry. It is also used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products.

• Chemical Properties: Citric acid is a tricarboxylic acid, meaning it has three carboxyl groups (-COOH). It is a white crystalline powder that is odorless and has a strong acidic taste. It is soluble in water and ethanol.
• Natural Occurrence: Citric acid is naturally present in citrus fruits, with lemons and limes having the highest concentrations. It is also found in other fruits like berries, cherries, and tomatoes.
• Commercial Production: Most citric acid used commercially is produced by fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus niger or other molds. This process allows for large-scale production at a lower cost compared to extraction from citrus fruits.

2. The Discovery and History of Citric Acid

The history of citric acid traces back to the 18th century, with its initial isolation and characterization marking a significant milestone in chemistry.

• Carl Wilhelm Scheele’s Discovery: In 1784, Carl Wilhelm Scheele, a Swedish pharmacist and chemist, first isolated citric acid from lemon juice. This discovery laid the foundation for understanding the nature and properties of this organic acid.
• Industrial Production: The industrial production of citric acid began in the late 19th century. Initially, it was extracted from citrus fruits, but this method was expensive and inefficient.
• Microbial Fermentation: In the early 20th century, a breakthrough occurred when it was discovered that certain molds, particularly Aspergillus niger, could produce citric acid through fermentation of sugars. This method revolutionized the production of citric acid, making it more cost-effective and scalable.
• Widespread Use: Today, most citric acid is produced through microbial fermentation. It is used extensively in the food and beverage industry, as well as in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products.

3. Why is Citric Acid Important?

Citric acid plays a crucial role in various industries due to its versatile properties and wide range of applications. Its significance stems from its ability to act as a preservative, flavoring agent, pH regulator, and more.

• Food and Beverage Industry: Citric acid is widely used as a preservative in food and beverages due to its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold. It also enhances the flavor of many foods, providing a tart or sour taste.
• Pharmaceutical Industry: In pharmaceuticals, citric acid is used as an excipient in tablets and syrups. It helps improve the stability and palatability of medications.
• Cosmetic Industry: Citric acid is used in cosmetics and personal care products for its pH adjusting and exfoliating properties. It can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
• Cleaning Products: Citric acid is an effective cleaning agent, particularly for removing hard water stains and rust. It is often used in household cleaning products.
• Industrial Applications: Citric acid is also used in various industrial applications, such as in the production of polymers and as a chelating agent to remove metal ions from solutions.
• Metabolic Importance: In the human body, citric acid is an intermediate in the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle), a crucial biochemical pathway for energy production.

4. Key Functions and Uses of Citric Acid

Citric acid’s versatile nature allows it to perform several key functions across different industries. Understanding these functions helps explain its widespread use.

• Preservative: As a preservative, citric acid inhibits the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeasts, extending the shelf life of food and beverage products.
• Flavoring Agent: Citric acid imparts a tart or sour taste to foods and beverages, enhancing their flavor profiles. It is commonly used in candies, soft drinks, and fruit juices.
• pH Regulator: Citric acid is used to adjust the pH of solutions, making them more acidic. This is important in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics to ensure product stability and safety.
• Chelating Agent: Citric acid can bind to metal ions, preventing them from reacting with other components in a solution. This is useful in cleaning products to remove hard water stains and in industrial applications to purify solutions.
• Antioxidant: Citric acid has antioxidant properties, helping to protect against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This is beneficial in both food preservation and cosmetic formulations.

5. Citric Acid in the Food and Beverage Industry

In the food and beverage industry, citric acid is a versatile ingredient with several important functions. Its use is widespread due to its ability to enhance flavor, preserve freshness, and ensure product stability.

• Flavor Enhancement: Citric acid provides a tart and refreshing taste to various foods and beverages. It is commonly used in soft drinks, fruit juices, candies, and jams to enhance their flavor profiles.
• Preservation: Citric acid acts as a preservative by lowering the pH of foods, which inhibits the growth of spoilage microorganisms like bacteria, molds, and yeasts. This extends the shelf life of products such as canned goods, pickles, and processed fruits.
• pH Regulation: Maintaining the correct pH is crucial in food processing to ensure proper texture, color, and stability. Citric acid is used to adjust and maintain the pH of various food products, such as cheese, yogurt, and processed meats.
• Antioxidant Properties: Citric acid’s antioxidant properties help prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, which can lead to rancidity and off-flavors. This is particularly useful in products like salad dressings and mayonnaise.
• Common Applications:
  • Soft Drinks: Provides a tart taste and acts as a preservative.
  • Fruit Juices: Enhances flavor and prevents browning.
  • Jams and Jellies: Aids in gelling and acts as a preservative.
  • Canned Fruits and Vegetables: Preserves color and texture.
  • Cheese and Yogurt: Helps in coagulation and fermentation.

6. Citric Acid in Pharmaceuticals

Citric acid is a valuable component in the pharmaceutical industry, serving multiple functions that contribute to the effectiveness and stability of medications.

• Excipient: Citric acid is used as an excipient in tablets, capsules, and syrups. Excipients are inactive ingredients that help improve the physical properties of the drug product.
• Flavoring Agent: Citric acid can mask the unpleasant taste of certain medications, making them more palatable for patients, especially children.
• Stabilizer: Citric acid helps stabilize drug formulations by preventing degradation and maintaining the potency of the active ingredients.
• Anticoagulant: In blood collection tubes, citric acid is used as an anticoagulant to prevent blood from clotting.
• Effervescent Formulations: Citric acid, in combination with bicarbonate, is used in effervescent tablets and powders. When these formulations are added to water, they produce carbon dioxide, which helps to dissolve the active ingredients and improve their absorption.
• Common Applications:
  • Tablets and Capsules: As a binder and stabilizer.
  • Syrups: To improve taste and stability.
  • Blood Collection Tubes: As an anticoagulant.
  • Effervescent Tablets: To enhance dissolution and absorption.

7. Citric Acid in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Citric acid is a common ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products due to its versatile properties and benefits for the skin.

• pH Adjuster: Citric acid is primarily used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. Maintaining the correct pH is crucial for product stability and to ensure that the product is gentle on the skin.
• Exfoliant: Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that can exfoliate the skin by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells. This helps to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a brighter complexion.
• Antioxidant: Citric acid has antioxidant properties that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This can help to prevent premature aging and improve overall skin health.
• Chelating Agent: Citric acid can bind to metal ions in cosmetic formulations, preventing them from reacting with other ingredients and causing discoloration or instability.
• Common Applications:
  • Skin Creams and Lotions: To adjust pH and exfoliate.
  • Facial Cleansers: To remove dead skin cells and brighten the complexion.
  • Shampoos and Conditioners: To adjust pH and improve hair health.
  • Anti-Aging Products: To reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

8. Citric Acid in Cleaning Products

Citric acid is an effective and environmentally friendly cleaning agent. It is used in various cleaning products to remove stains, dissolve mineral deposits, and disinfect surfaces.

• Descaling Agent: Citric acid is excellent at removing hard water stains, lime scale, and rust from surfaces. It can dissolve mineral deposits in coffee makers, kettles, and bathroom fixtures.
• Disinfectant: Citric acid has disinfectant properties that can kill bacteria and viruses on surfaces. It is often used in household cleaners and sanitizers.
• Odor Neutralizer: Citric acid can neutralize unpleasant odors by breaking down the compounds that cause them. It is used in air fresheners and odor eliminators.
• Environmentally Friendly: Citric acid is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it a safer alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
• Common Applications:
  • Bathroom Cleaners: To remove hard water stains and soap scum.
  • Kitchen Cleaners: To dissolve grease and disinfect surfaces.
  • Laundry Detergents: To enhance cleaning power and remove stains.
  • Dishwashing Detergents: To remove food residue and prevent water spots.
  • Coffee Maker Cleaners: To remove mineral deposits and improve performance.

9. Citric Acid in Industrial Applications

Beyond the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and cleaning industries, citric acid is also used in various industrial applications.

• Chelating Agent: In industrial processes, citric acid is used as a chelating agent to remove metal ions from solutions. This is useful in water treatment, metal finishing, and textile processing.
• Polymer Production: Citric acid is used as a monomer in the production of biodegradable polymers. These polymers are used in packaging, agriculture, and biomedical applications.
• Soil Remediation: Citric acid can be used to remove heavy metals from contaminated soil. It binds to the metals, making them more soluble and easier to remove.
• Oil and Gas Industry: Citric acid is used in oil and gas drilling to dissolve carbonate deposits and improve well productivity.
• Common Applications:
  • Water Treatment: To remove metal ions and prevent scaling.
  • Metal Finishing: To clean and prepare metal surfaces for coating.
  • Textile Processing: To improve dye uptake and fabric quality.
  • Polymer Production: As a building block for biodegradable plastics.
  • Soil Remediation: To remove heavy metals from contaminated soil.

10. The Citric Acid Cycle: Its Role in Metabolism

The citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, is a crucial biochemical pathway in cellular respiration. It plays a central role in energy production by oxidizing acetyl-CoA, which is derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

• Overview: The citric acid cycle occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells and the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells. It involves a series of enzymatic reactions that convert acetyl-CoA into carbon dioxide, ATP (energy), and high-energy electron carriers (NADH and FADH2).
• Key Steps:
  1. Acetyl-CoA Enters the Cycle: Acetyl-CoA combines with oxaloacetate to form citrate, catalyzed by citrate synthase.
  2. Isomerization of Citrate: Citrate is converted to isocitrate by aconitase.
  3. Oxidative Decarboxylation: Isocitrate is oxidized and decarboxylated to α-ketoglutarate, catalyzed by isocitrate dehydrogenase. This step produces NADH and releases carbon dioxide.
  4. Second Oxidative Decarboxylation: α-ketoglutarate is oxidized and decarboxylated to succinyl-CoA, catalyzed by α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex. This step also produces NADH and releases carbon dioxide.
  5. Conversion of Succinyl-CoA to Succinate: Succinyl-CoA is converted to succinate by succinyl-CoA synthetase. This step produces GTP (which can be converted to ATP).
  6. Oxidation of Succinate: Succinate is oxidized to fumarate by succinate dehydrogenase. This step produces FADH2.
  7. Hydration of Fumarate: Fumarate is hydrated to malate by fumarase.
  8. Oxidation of Malate: Malate is oxidized to oxaloacetate by malate dehydrogenase. This step produces NADH, regenerating oxaloacetate to continue the cycle.
• Products of the Cycle: For each molecule of acetyl-CoA that enters the cycle, the following products are generated:
  • 2 molecules of carbon dioxide (CO2)
  • 3 molecules of NADH
  • 1 molecule of FADH2
  • 1 molecule of GTP (or ATP)
• Importance: The citric acid cycle is essential for energy production in cells. The NADH and FADH2 produced in the cycle are used in the electron transport chain to generate ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. The cycle also provides intermediates for the synthesis of amino acids, fatty acids, and other important biomolecules.

11. Potential Health Benefits of Citric Acid

Citric acid offers several potential health benefits, ranging from kidney stone prevention to improved skin health.

• Kidney Stone Prevention: Citric acid can help prevent the formation of kidney stones by binding to calcium in the urine, reducing the risk of calcium oxalate crystals forming. It also increases urine pH, making it less favorable for stone formation.
• Skin Health: As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), citric acid can exfoliate the skin, improving texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
• Antioxidant Effects: Citric acid can act as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. This may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
• Immune Support: Some studies suggest that citric acid may play a role in supporting immune function by modulating the intestinal barrier.
• Improved Mineral Absorption: Citric acid can enhance the absorption of certain minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, by forming soluble complexes that are more easily absorbed by the body.

12. Safety and Potential Side Effects of Citric Acid

Citric acid is generally considered safe for consumption and use in various products. However, some individuals may experience side effects or have concerns about its safety.

• General Safety: Citric acid is recognized as safe by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) when used as intended in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
• Dental Erosion: Excessive consumption of citric acid-containing foods and beverages can lead to dental erosion, as the acid can dissolve tooth enamel. It is important to consume these products in moderation and practice good oral hygiene.
• Skin Irritation: In some individuals, citric acid may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially when used in high concentrations in cosmetic products. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using products containing citric acid on a large area of skin.
• Digestive Issues: High doses of citric acid may cause digestive issues such as heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may be allergic to citric acid. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Source of Citric Acid: Most commercially produced citric acid is derived from Aspergillus niger fermentation. While the fermentation process is generally safe, some individuals may have concerns about potential allergens or contaminants.
• Considerations:
  • Moderation: Consume citric acid-containing foods and beverages in moderation to minimize the risk of dental erosion.
  • Patch Test: Perform a patch test before using cosmetic products containing citric acid to check for skin irritation.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you experience any adverse effects after consuming or using citric acid, consult a healthcare professional.

13. How Citric Acid is Produced Commercially

Most of the citric acid used in commercial applications is produced through microbial fermentation, a process that has revolutionized its availability and cost-effectiveness.

• Fermentation Process: The primary method for producing citric acid involves the fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus niger, a common mold. This process is highly efficient and scalable.
• Raw Materials: The raw materials used in citric acid fermentation include:
  • Sugars: Glucose, sucrose, or molasses are used as carbon sources for the mold.
  • Nutrients: Nitrogen, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients are added to support the growth of Aspergillus niger.
  • Water: High-quality water is essential for the fermentation process.
• Fermentation Steps:
  1. Preparation of Fermentation Medium: The sugar and nutrient solutions are prepared and sterilized to prevent contamination.
  2. Inoculation: Aspergillus niger spores are introduced into the fermentation medium.
  3. Fermentation: The fermentation is carried out in large fermenters under controlled conditions of temperature, pH, and aeration. The mold consumes the sugar and produces citric acid.
  4. Harvesting: After the fermentation is complete, the citric acid is harvested from the fermentation broth.
  5. Purification: The citric acid is purified by precipitation, filtration, and crystallization.
  6. Drying and Packaging: The purified citric acid is dried and packaged for sale.
• Advantages of Fermentation:
  • Cost-Effective: Fermentation is a cost-effective method for producing citric acid compared to extraction from citrus fruits.
  • Scalable: The fermentation process can be scaled up to produce large quantities of citric acid.
  • Consistent Quality: Fermentation allows for consistent quality and purity of the final product.

14. Distinguishing Citric Acid from Other Acids

Citric acid is often compared to other acids used in similar applications. Understanding the differences between citric acid and these acids can help in choosing the right acid for a specific purpose.

• Citric Acid vs. Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C):
  • Citric Acid: A tricarboxylic acid used as a preservative, flavoring agent, and pH regulator. It is produced by fermentation and is effective at chelating metal ions.
  • Ascorbic Acid: An essential nutrient with antioxidant properties. It is used as a food additive to prevent browning and as a vitamin supplement.
  • Key Differences: Citric acid is more effective as a preservative and pH regulator, while ascorbic acid is primarily used for its antioxidant and nutritional properties.
• Citric Acid vs. Acetic Acid (Vinegar):
  • Citric Acid: A solid acid with a tart taste. It is used in a wide range of applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
  • Acetic Acid: A liquid acid with a pungent odor. It is primarily used as a preservative and flavoring agent in foods, as well as in cleaning products.
  • Key Differences: Citric acid is more versatile and has a milder taste compared to acetic acid. Acetic acid is more commonly used in pickling and as a disinfectant.
• Citric Acid vs. Malic Acid:
  • Citric Acid: Provides a tart, citrusy flavor.
  • Malic Acid: Provides a smoother, more mellow sourness, often associated with apples.
  • Key Differences: Malic acid is often used in products where a less intense sour flavor is desired.

15. Addressing Common Misconceptions About Citric Acid

Several misconceptions surround citric acid, particularly regarding its safety and sources. Addressing these misconceptions can help clarify its role and benefits.

• Misconception 1: Citric acid is only found in citrus fruits.
  • Fact: While citric acid is abundant in citrus fruits, it is also found in other fruits and vegetables, such as berries, cherries, and tomatoes. Additionally, most commercial citric acid is produced by microbial fermentation, not extracted from citrus fruits.
• Misconception 2: Citric acid is harmful because it is an acid.
  • Fact: Citric acid is a weak organic acid that is generally safe for consumption and use in various products. It is regulated by food safety agencies and is used in moderation to enhance flavor, preserve freshness, and adjust pH.
• Misconception 3: Citric acid is a synthetic chemical.
  • Fact: While citric acid can be synthesized, most commercially produced citric acid is made through a natural fermentation process using Aspergillus niger. This process is considered a natural method of production.
• Misconception 4: Citric acid causes allergic reactions.
  • Fact: Allergic reactions to citric acid are rare. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation or digestive issues. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing citric acid and to consult a healthcare professional if any adverse effects occur.
• Misconception 5: Citric acid is the same as MSG (monosodium glutamate).
  • Fact: Citric acid and MSG are different compounds with different uses. Citric acid is an organic acid used as a preservative and flavoring agent, while MSG is a flavor enhancer used to add a savory taste to foods.

16. The Future of Citric Acid: Emerging Applications and Research

The future of citric acid looks promising, with ongoing research exploring new applications and potential benefits in various fields.

• Bioplastics: Citric acid is being investigated as a building block for biodegradable plastics. These bioplastics can be used in packaging, agriculture, and other applications, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.
• Pharmaceuticals: Research is exploring the potential of citric acid in drug delivery systems and as a therapeutic agent for various conditions, including cancer and inflammatory diseases.
• Energy Storage: Citric acid is being studied as an electrolyte in batteries and fuel cells. Its ability to chelate metal ions and its environmentally friendly nature make it an attractive option for energy storage applications.
• Agricultural Applications: Citric acid is being used in agriculture to improve nutrient uptake by plants and to remediate contaminated soils.
• Nanotechnology: Citric acid is being used in the synthesis of nanoparticles for various applications, including drug delivery, imaging, and catalysis.
• Sustainable Production: Efforts are underway to develop more sustainable methods for producing citric acid, such as using alternative feedstocks and optimizing the fermentation process.

17. Citric Acid and the Environment

Citric acid is considered an environmentally friendly compound due to its biodegradability and non-toxic nature. Its use in various applications can contribute to sustainable practices.

• Biodegradability: Citric acid is readily biodegradable, meaning it breaks down quickly in the environment without leaving harmful residues. This makes it a safer alternative to many synthetic chemicals that can persist in the environment for long periods.
• Non-Toxic: Citric acid is non-toxic to humans and wildlife when used as intended. This reduces the risk of environmental contamination and harm to ecosystems.
• Sustainable Production: The production of citric acid through microbial fermentation is a sustainable process that utilizes renewable resources such as sugars and nutrients. This reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and minimizes environmental impact.
• Reduced Chemical Use: Citric acid can replace harsh chemical cleaners and solvents in various applications, reducing the overall use of hazardous substances and minimizing pollution.
• Soil Remediation: Citric acid can be used to remove heavy metals from contaminated soil, helping to restore soil health and prevent the spread of pollutants.
• Bioplastics: The use of citric acid in the production of bioplastics can reduce the reliance on petroleum-based plastics, which are a major source of pollution.

18. Interesting Facts About Citric Acid

Delving into some interesting facts about citric acid can further illuminate its significance and versatility.

• First Isolated from Lemons: Carl Wilhelm Scheele first isolated citric acid from lemon juice in 1784.
• Essential for the Citric Acid Cycle: Citric acid is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), a crucial biochemical pathway for energy production in cells.
• Used in Bath Bombs: Citric acid is a key ingredient in bath bombs, where it reacts with sodium bicarbonate to create fizzing and bubbling.
• Natural Preservative: Citric acid is a natural preservative used in food and beverages to inhibit the growth of bacteria and molds.
• Chelating Agent: Citric acid is an effective chelating agent, meaning it can bind to metal ions and prevent them from reacting with other substances.
• pH Regulator: Citric acid is used to adjust the pH of solutions, making them more acidic.
• Exfoliating Properties: Citric acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that can exfoliate the skin, improving texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Produced by Fermentation: Most commercial citric acid is produced by fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus niger.
• Used in Photography: Citric acid is used in photography as a developer and fixer.
• Found in Wine: Citric acid is naturally present in wine and contributes to its flavor and stability.

19. Citric Acid: Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Answer
Is citric acid safe to consume?	Yes, citric acid is generally safe to consume in moderate amounts. It is used as a food additive and preservative and is recognized as safe by regulatory agencies.
Can citric acid cause allergic reactions?	Allergic reactions to citric acid are rare, but some individuals may experience skin irritation or digestive issues.
What is citric acid used for in cosmetics?	Citric acid is used in cosmetics as a pH adjuster, exfoliant, and antioxidant. It can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
How is citric acid produced commercially?	Most commercial citric acid is produced by microbial fermentation of sugars by Aspergillus niger.
What are the health benefits of citric acid?	Citric acid can help prevent kidney stones, improve skin health, act as an antioxidant, and support immune function.
Can citric acid damage teeth?	Excessive consumption of citric acid-containing foods and beverages can lead to dental erosion. It is important to consume these products in moderation and practice good oral hygiene.
Is citric acid environmentally friendly?	Yes, citric acid is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it a safer alternative to harsh chemical cleaners and solvents.
What is the citric acid cycle?	The citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) is a crucial biochemical pathway for energy production in cells. It involves a series of enzymatic reactions that convert acetyl-CoA into carbon dioxide, ATP, and high-energy electron carriers.
How does citric acid help prevent kidney stones?	Citric acid binds to calcium in the urine, reducing the risk of calcium oxalate crystals forming, which can lead to kidney stones. It also increases urine pH, making it less favorable for stone formation.
Can citric acid be used to clean household appliances?	Yes, citric acid is an effective descaling agent that can be used to remove hard water stains, lime scale, and rust from coffee makers, kettles, and bathroom fixtures.
What is the role of citric acid in food preservation?	Citric acid lowers the pH of foods, inhibiting the growth of spoilage microorganisms like bacteria, molds, and yeasts, thus extending the shelf life of products.
Does citric acid have any role in metabolic processes?	Yes, citric acid plays a central role in the citric acid cycle, a crucial biochemical pathway for energy production in cells, where it helps oxidize acetyl-CoA to produce energy and other important biomolecules.
Can citric acid be used in organic gardening or agriculture?	Yes, citric acid can be used in organic gardening to adjust soil pH, improve nutrient uptake by plants, and as a natural chelating agent to help address nutrient deficiencies.
What is the difference between citric acid and citrus allergy?	Citric acid, found in all plants and animals, is different from citrus allergies, which are triggered by specific proteins in citrus fruits. Most people with citrus allergies can tolerate citric acid as it is not the allergenic protein. [American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: “Citric Acid and Citrus Allergy.”]

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