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Foods & Beverages

Citric acid

Citric acid is a weak organic acid with the chemical formula C6H8O7, predominantly found in citrus fruits. It is commonly used as an acidulant in food products, cleaning agents, and as a chelating agent.

Citric acid

Product information summary

Description
Citric acid is a weak organic acid with the chemical formula C6H8O7, predominantly found in citrus fruits. It is commonly used as an acidulant in food products, cleaning agents, and as a chelating agent.
Main application
Citric acid is primarily used as a food preservative and flavouring agent.
Packaging
Commonly available in 25 kg bags.

Part of Foods & Beverages. Tell us the grade, quantity and packaging you need and our sales team will confirm availability and lead time.

Why Citric acid matters

Citric acid plays a crucial role in the food and beverage industry as it enhances flavours, preserves food, and serves as an effective acidulant. Its versatility extends beyond food, impacting cleaning and laboratory applications as well.

What is Citric acid?

Citric acid is a natural organic acid widely distributed in plants and key to the citric acid cycle in metabolism. It has three carboxylic acid groups, making it a powerful chelating agent and stable enough for various applications. It occurs naturally in high concentrations in citrus fruits, contributing to their characteristic tartness.

Why buy Citric acid from Cuprichem

  • Technical support for product selection to suit specific applications.
  • Ability to match specifications for diverse industrial needs.
  • Dependable local supply chain to ensure timely delivery across Kenya.

Technical data sheet

Indicative properties for Citric acid. For a certified specification and the Safety Data Sheet, request a quote.

AppearanceWhite crystalline powder
Solubility in waterSoluble
Boiling pointRefer to the SDS
Melting pointRefer to the SDS
pH (1% solution)Approximately 2-3
OdourOdourless
StabilityStable under normal conditions
DensityRefer to the SDS

Applications of Citric acid

  • Food preservative
  • Flavour enhancer
  • pH regulator in formulations
  • Cleaning agent
  • Chelating agent in metal processing
  • Acidulant in beverages
  • Antioxidant in food preservation
  • Component in pharmaceuticals

Available packaging options

  • 25 kg bag

Safe handling & storage of Citric acid

For safe handling and storage, refer to the Safety Data Sheet and consult with Cuprichem's technical team for specific guidelines.

This is general information only. Always follow the product’s Safety Data Sheet and your site’s procedures; contact our technical team for guidance specific to your process.

Quality assurance of Citric acid

Cuprichem is committed to supplying materials that meet specified standards, with accompanying documentation available on request.

Frequently asked questions

What is citric acid used for?

Citric acid is used primarily as a food preservative and flavouring agent, as well as in cleaning products and cosmetics.

Is citric acid safe to use in food?

Yes, citric acid is generally recognised as safe and is commonly used in food products.

What are the physical properties of citric acid?

It appears as a white crystalline powder, is soluble in water, and has a sour taste.

Can citric acid be used for cleaning?

Yes, citric acid is effective in removing limescale and is used in many household and industrial cleaning products.

How should citric acid be stored?

Citric acid should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

What industries use citric acid?

Citric acid is widely used in the food and beverage, cleaning, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic industries.

Is citric acid a natural product?

Yes, citric acid is a naturally occurring organic acid predominantly found in citrus fruits.

What form does citric acid come in?

Citric acid is commonly available as a white crystalline powder.

Citric acid supply across Kenya

Cuprichem Industrial Chemicals Ltd supplies Citric acid to manufacturers, institutions and laboratories nationwide, delivering to:

  • Nairobi
  • Mombasa
  • Kisumu
  • Nakuru
  • Eldoret
  • Thika
  • Ruiru
  • Kikuyu
  • Naivasha
  • Machakos
  • Athi River
  • Kitengela
  • Nyeri
  • Meru
  • Kericho
  • Kakamega
  • Kisii
  • Malindi
  • Nanyuki
  • Kilifi

Not listed? We arrange delivery to other towns on request.

Need Citric acid?

Send your grade, quantity and packaging requirements and our sales team will respond with availability, pricing and lead time.