Citric Acid
High purity organic acid
Overview
Citric Acid (CAS No: 77-92-9) is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. Known in the food industry as E330, this acid is widely used for its sour taste and preservative properties. Monohydrate and anhydrous forms are available.
Citric acid is a colorless, crystalline compound with high solubility in water. It has versatile applications in food, cleaning, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial processes. It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Applications
Citric Acid has broad industrial and commercial applications:
Food and Beverage Industry
Used as acidity regulator (E330), flavor enhancer, preservative and antioxidant.
Cleaning Products
Used as natural cleaner, descaling agent and disinfectant.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Used as pH regulator, exfoliating agent and preservative.
Pharmaceutical Products
Used in effervescent tablets and vitamin preparations.
Water Treatment
Used as water softener, anti-scaling and chelating agent.
Agriculture and Livestock
Used as feed additive and soil pH regulator.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₈O₇ | - | - |
| CAS Number | 77-92-9 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 192.12 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder/granules | - | Visual |
| Odor | Slightly sour | - | - |
| Density (25°C) | 1.665 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Melting Point | 153-159 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| pH Value (1% sol.) | 2.2 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Water Solubility (25°C) | 1470 | g/L | ASTM E1148 |
| Purity | ≥99.5% | % | USP/FCC |
| Ash Content | ≤0.05 | % | ASTM D482 |
| Moisture Content | ≤0.5 | % | ASTM E203 |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Irritant Eye Irritation
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Acid-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Dust mask (at high concentrations)
- Chemical goggles or face protection
- Lab coat or protective clothing
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place
- Keep in original packaging, tightly closed
- Storage temperature: 15-30°C
- Keep away from bases and oxidizers
- Protect from moisture
Fire Fighting
- Suitable extinguishers: Water spray, dry chemical, CO₂, foam
- Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide may be released during fire
- Firefighting personnel should use appropriate respiratory protection
Handling and Storage
Handling
- Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
- Transport separately from oxidizers and bases
- Protect from moisture during transport
- Keep neutralizing materials available for spills
- Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
Storage
- Store in polyethylene, stainless steel or enameled containers
- Display appropriate signs in storage area
- Keep acid neutralizing materials in storage areas
- Provide secondary containment for large quantities
- Protect monohydrate form from humid environments
Spill Response Measures
- Evacuate exposed personnel from the area
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment
- Clean up dust without raising into the air
- Contain spill with sodium bicarbonate or other neutralizing materials
- Wash spilled area with plenty of water
Regulatory Information
GHS Classification
- Skin Irritation Category 2
- Serious Eye Damage Category 1
Key Regulations
- FDA: GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status
- EFSA: Approved as food additive (E330)
- REACH: Registered
- USP/FCC: Meets pharmaceutical and food quality standards
Food Compliance Certificates
- FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) compliant
- Kosher certified (optional)
- Halal certified (optional)
- GMO free
- Vegetarian/Vegan compliant
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Citric acid shows low toxicity in aquatic environments. It may be harmful to aquatic life at high concentrations. Easily decomposes in soil and water and is completely biodegradable.
Biodegradation
- Air: Degrades through photochemical reactions
- Water: Rapidly degrades through microbial activity (>95% within 28 days)
- Soil: Rapidly degrades through microbial activity
Waste Management
- Not classified as hazardous waste
- Can be disposed of by neutralization at licensed waste disposal facilities
- Should not be discharged into sewers or surface waters
- Dispose of according to local regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is citric acid found naturally?
Citric acid is found naturally in high amounts in citrus fruits (lemon, orange, grapefruit). It is also found in strawberries, pineapples and many other fruits.
Why is citric acid used in foods?
Citric acid is used in foods as an acidity regulator (E330), flavor enhancer, preservative and antioxidant. It has a sour taste and helps extend the shelf life of foods.
How is citric acid used in household cleaning?
Citric acid is a natural cleaner and descaling agent. 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid dissolved in 1 liter of water can be used as an all-purpose cleaner.
Is citric acid harmful to health?
Food-grade citric acid is considered safe when consumed in recommended doses. However, high doses may cause stomach discomfort.
Are citric acid and lemon salt the same thing?
Yes, the substance known as lemon salt among the public is citric acid. However, it is important to check the content of products sold as "lemon salt" in the market.