Citric acid, also known as acidum citricum or lemon salt, is a naturally occurring weak organic acid found in many fruits, particularly citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. It is the compound responsible for giving these fruits their tart and tangy flavor. Citric acid was first discovered in 1784 when German-Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele isolated it from lemon juice.

 

Although citric acid occurs naturally in fruits, the industrial form used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries is most commonly produced by fermenting sugars with specific fungi. This industrial production method has made citric acid one of the most widely used additives in the world, appearing in products such as soft drinks, candies, jams, and preservatives. However, excessive and uncontrolled consumption may have adverse health effects.

 

Production and Manufacturing Process of Citric Acid

Citric acid is primarily manufactured on an industrial scale to meet widespread market demand. The main and most common method of production is microbial fermentation. In this process, a specific fungus called Aspergillus niger is cultivated on a carbohydrate-rich substrate such as glucose or sucrose. These fungi naturally metabolize sugars and produce citric acid as a by-product.

 

Other production methods exist, such as extraction directly from fruits like lemons and pineapples, or fermentation using yeasts from the Candida species. However, fermentation with Aspergillus niger remains the most efficient and globally preferred method due to its high yield and scalability. Today, the vast majority of citric acid used as a food-grade chemical is produced in this way.

Applications of Citric Acid

Citric acid has a wide range of applications across various industries due to its unique water-soluble and acidic properties.

 

Food and Pharmaceutical Industries

In the food industry, citric acid is a key additive. It is used to impart a fresh, tart flavor to carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it also acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of many products. In confectionery, citric acid is used to create a sour taste, stabilize sugars, and improve product texture.

 

In pharmaceuticals, citric acid serves as a flavoring agent, masking the unpleasant taste of certain medications. It also functions as an emulsifier, preventing separation in liquid formulations. Combined with bicarbonates, it is used to make effervescent tablets, allowing medications to dissolve quickly in water.

 

Household and Industrial Uses

Citric acid is commonly found in cleaning products. It is added to laundry detergents, shampoos, and other cleaning agents to adjust pH levels and enhance the performance of surfactants. Since it is water-soluble and biodegradable, it rinses off easily and is environmentally friendly.

 

Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry

In cosmetics, citric acid is used as a pH adjuster, helping to maintain the acid balance of products. Due to its antioxidant and mild exfoliating properties, it is included in skincare formulations to brighten the skin and reduce pore size. However, direct undiluted application on the skin is not recommended.

Natural Cleaner

Citric acid is an effective natural cleaner thanks to its mild acidity. It removes limescale deposits, rust, and grease stains, making it suitable for cleaning faucets, tiles, and stainless steel surfaces. This makes it a safer and eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.

 

Textile Industry

In textile dyeing, citric acid acts as a color fixative, helping dyes adhere more firmly to natural fibers and improving wash resistance.

 

Carbonated Beverages

One of citric acid’s notable applications is in carbonated drinks. When combined with baking soda, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which creates the fizz and effervescence of soft drinks.

 

Benefits of Citric Acid

Citric acid offers numerous health and industrial benefits due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Food Preservation: In canned foods, it prevents the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for botulism, while balancing product pH and enhancing flavor.

Antioxidant Effect: It protects cells against oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Kidney Stone Prevention: Citric acid prevents new stone formation and may break down small stones at early stages. Its salts, such as calcium citrate and potassium citrate, are used for kidney stone prevention.

 

Skincare Benefits: As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), it gently exfoliates, improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and cleanses pores.

Digestive Aid: Citric acid regulates stomach acidity, improving digestion of fatty and protein-rich foods while enhancing the absorption of essential minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Its antioxidant nature helps reduce inflammation and may support conditions such as arthritis.

Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity: It inhibits microbial growth, making it useful in food preservation, oral hygiene products, and antifungal treatments.

Energy Production and Sports Performance: Citric acid plays a role in cellular energy cycles, boosting energy levels and reducing fatigue, which is why it is included in sports drinks and supplements.

Environmental Applications: Used in water treatment to prevent scaling and remove heavy metals, and as a phosphate substitute in detergents to reduce water hardness.

Medical Uses: It improves drug solubility, aids in the production of effervescent tablets, and helps reduce urinary tract infections.

Some studies also suggest potential anticancer effects, although more research is needed.

Side Effects of Citric Acid

While citric acid is generally safe in small amounts, excessive consumption may cause negative effects. In concentrated form, it can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Overuse may irritate the digestive system, causing stomach pain and inflammation. In cosmetics, uncontrolled or undiluted application may cause skin irritation. Additionally, in certain weight-loss supplements, excessive amounts may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and cause early hunger by accelerating digestion.

 

Purchasing Citric Acid from Persia Kamandar Paytakht Trading Company

For bulk supply of citric acid, you can contact Persia Kamandar Paytakht Trading Company, a reliable supplier of chemical raw materials for food, pharmaceutical, and industrial use. The company offers citric acid (in bulk quantities) with suitable quality for various applications. With the diverse uses of citric acid, working with a trusted supplier ensures consistent quality and strengthens your supply chain. For more information on pricing and purchasing conditions, you can directly reach out to the company’s trading department.