Author: Dean Rouseberg
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
January 27, 2026
Characteristics: Citric acid is an antioxidant related to organic acids. The food supplement can be obtained from natural ingredients and in a synthetic way. In nature it is contained in
Citric acid is an antioxidant related to organic acids. The food supplement can be obtained from natural ingredients and in a synthetic way. In nature it is found in pomegranate, pineapple, blueberries, citrus fruits, pine needles and others. E 330 has a pronounced sour taste and is a natural preservative. In appearance it is a white crystalline powder that dissolves easily in water and alcohol, practically insoluble in diethyl ether, when heated to 153 ° C the additive begins to melt. If in an environment with a temperature of 175 ° C, citric acid decomposes into water and carbon dioxide.
Citric acid is used as an acidity regulator, preservative and food additive at the same time. It has a place in the production of food products, chemical detergents and cleaners, in medicine and cosmetics. Drinks, juices, jams, confectionery - they all contain E 330. Doctors use it to improve metabolism and energy metabolism. Cosmetics are unthinkable without the additive, which is an indispensable part of the composition of creams, dyes and gels for hair, shampoos, lotions and more.
Citric acid is approved for use in all countries around the world.
In small quantities, E 330 has a positive effect on the human body and participates in vital metabolic processes.
There is a danger to health when the doses are high. For example, skin and eye contact with citric acid concentrate leads to severe chemical burns and even vision loss. If a person takes a lot of E 330, this carries a risk of problems with tooth enamel and is a prerequisite for the formation of caries. If a large amount of citric acid suddenly enters the body, coughing, vomiting with blood, burns of the esophagus and stomach occur. Severe respiratory tract irritation occurs when the supplement is inhaled.