Citric acid
Score impact
+0.10
points/product
Description
E330, known as citric acid, is a widely used food additive as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer. It occurs naturally in citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges, but industrially it is produced by fermentation of carbohydrates (molasses, corn starch) with the fungus Aspergillus niger.
It is a weak organic acid, formula C6H8O7, soluble in water, with a characteristic sour taste. Its main function is to adjust the pH of foods, improve the stability of preservatives and antioxidants, and enhance flavors.
It was discovered in the 8th century by the alchemist Jabir ibn Hayyan, but its industrial production began in the 19th century. The European Union approved it as a food additive after evaluations by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) and WHO (World Health Organization), establishing an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 0-30 mg/kg body weight (expressed as anhydrous citric acid).
EFSA concludes that there are no safety concerns at current usage levels. On labeling, it must appear as "citric acid" or "E330". It is considered a safe and well-tolerated additive, with no significant adverse effects in the general population.
Citric acid (E330) is used in a wide variety of foods. In soft drinks, juices, and nectars, it is used to provide acidity and enhance fruit flavors. In canned fruits and vegetables, it acts as a preservative by lowering pH, inhibiting microbial growth. In dairy products such as yogurts and fresh cheeses, it is added to adjust acidity and improve texture. It is also used in jams, jellies, sauces, mayonnaises, and bakery products as a pH regulator.
In the Spanish market, it is commonly found in cola drinks, lemonades, and canned olives. According to Regulation EC 1333/2008, its use is authorized in quantum satis amounts (no specific maximum limit) in most categories, although in some like fruit juices and nectars it is limited to 3 g/L. Compared to the FDA, which classifies it as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), and Japan, which also allows it without significant restrictions, the EU maintains similar safety criteria.
Citric acid (E330) is generally recognized as safe by EFSA and WHO. In most people, it produces no adverse effects at typical consumption levels. However, very high doses (far above the ADI) may cause gastric irritation, erosion of tooth enamel (due to its acidity), and in extreme cases, hypocalcemia (decreased blood calcium) due to calcium chelation. These effects are rare and associated with excessive consumption of highly acidic products or supplements. Sensitive populations include people with gastrointestinal disorders such as reflux or ulcers, who may experience discomfort.
No significant drug interactions have been documented. EFSA, in its 2012 re-evaluation, concluded that there is no evidence of genetic, carcinogenic, or reproductive toxicity at current exposure levels. WHO also supports its safety.
In conclusion, E330 is one of the safest additives and moderate consumption poses no health risks.
- Citric acid
- 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid
- Hydrogen citrate
- Anhydrous citric acid
- Citric acid monohydrate
- E-330
- Calcium citrate
- Lemon acid
- Citric acidulant
- Citrate salt
- Tricarboxylic organic acid
- Sodium citrate
- Potassium citrate
- Hydroxypropanetricarboxylic acid
Products in our Spanish database containing this additive
Examples found in ComerClaro Spanish product database
Product names and supermarket data may appear in Spanish.
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