Foods & Beverages
Citric Acid
Citric Acid is a weak organic acid commonly found in citrus fruits. It is widely used in food and beverage production as an acidulant and preservative.
Product information summary
- Description
- Citric Acid is a weak organic acid commonly found in citrus fruits. It is widely used in food and beverage production as an acidulant and preservative.
- Main application
- The primary application of citric acid is as a food preservative and flavour enhancer.
- Packaging
- Typically 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 is crucial for food preservation and flavour enhancement, providing tartness in culinary applications while also serving functional roles in food and beverage production. Its versatility extends to various industrial sectors, making it a staple chemical for many manufacturers.
What is Citric Acid?
Citric Acid, or C6H8O7, is an organic acid that occurs naturally in many fruits, particularly citrus. It is a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle, a fundamental metabolic pathway for energy production in aerobic organisms. As a weak acid, it has the ability to donate protons, which imparts its characteristic sour taste and utility in various chemical reactions. In industrial applications, Citric Acid serves multiple roles. It is used to regulate pH levels, act as a chelating agent, and preserve the colour and flavour of foods. Its antioxidant properties also contribute to preventing spoilage in food products, making it invaluable in the food processing industry.
Why buy Citric Acid from Cuprichem
- Technical support to help match specifications for your applications.
- Dependable supply channels ensuring availability when needed.
- Local delivery options in Kenya reducing lead times for procurement.
Technical data sheet
Indicative properties for Citric Acid. For a certified specification and the Safety Data Sheet, request a quote.
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
|---|---|
| Density | Refer to the SDS |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Melting Point | 153°C (307°F) |
| pH (10% solution) | Approximately 2-3 |
| Odour | Odourless |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions |
| Molar mass | 192.13 g/mol |
Applications of Citric Acid
- Food preservative
- Flavour enhancer
- pH stabiliser
- Chelating agent
- Detergency in cleaning products
- Industrial processing aid
- Pharmaceutical formulation
- Cosmetic ingredient
Available packaging options
- 25 kg bag
Safe handling & storage of Citric Acid
For safe handling and storage guidance, please refer to the product's Safety Data Sheet and consult Cuprichem's technical team.
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 specifications, with documentation provided upon request.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary use of Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is primarily used as a preservative and flavour enhancer in the food and beverage industry.
Can Citric Acid be used in cosmetics?
Yes, Citric Acid is used as an ingredient in certain cosmetic formulations due to its pH regulating properties.
Is Citric Acid safe for food use?
Citric Acid is widely acknowledged as safe for food use and is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
How should Citric Acid be stored?
Citric Acid should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, adhering to the guidelines in the Safety Data Sheet.
What industries commonly use Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is commonly used in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Is Citric Acid biodegradable?
Yes, Citric Acid is biodegradable and is considered environmentally friendly.
What is the origin of Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is naturally occurring in citrus fruits but is often produced synthetically for industrial uses.
Can Citric Acid be used as a cleaning agent?
Yes, Citric Acid is used as a cleaning agent due to its ability to dissolve limescale and other deposits.
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.