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To synthetically create citric acid, the type that is used in most mass-produced processed foods, sugar is fed to the fungus called Aspergillus niger, which is a common black mold. It can either be naturally occurring, meaning the type found in plants, or man-made in a lab. It’s considered a weak organic acid but not an essential vitamin or mineral because we don’t require it from our diets. What Is Citric Acid?Ĭitric acid is a common food additive and chemical that’s naturally found in citrus fruits and their juices. Lemon and limes are some of the most beneficial alkalizing foods we can eat on a regular basis, and they have loads to offer aside from providing us with citric acid. When it comes to increasing your intake of citrus acid, the best way to do this is to have more fruits and vegetables every day, especially the citrus variety (lemons, limes, oranges, etc.). That being said, it can be irritating to some people who have sensitive digestive systems, acid reflux, allergies or sensitive skin. It also has been shown to have antioxidant, alkalizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
What happens when you eat citric acid? It enters your bloodstream and eventually ends up in your urine, where it makes your urine less acidic. It’s also an ingredient in many skincare, cleaning and industrial products, such as laundry detergent, kitchen cleaners, dyes and chemical solvents.
You’ll find citric acid in foods and drinks like pre-packaged fruits and veggies, canned or jarred foods, hummus, salsa, chicken stock, some yogurts and cheeses, baked goods and desserts, soft drinks, beer and wine.
Where do you find citric acid exactly? It is found in foods like citrus fruits (especially lemons and limes), plus a variety of packaged/processed foods, especially those that have an acidic or sour taste. Given how much you probably encounter it, you might be wondering if it’s an ingredient to avoid or whether it might actually offer some health benefits. In some countries, citric acid has been used as an additive in foods, cosmetics and many other products for more than 100 years, mostly as a preservative and flavor enhancer. Lemon JuiceĬitric acid: It’s one of the most common food additives found in our food supply today, yet for many of us it remains a mysterious ingredient.