Citric acid is used in insecticides and disinfectants because it destroys bacteria and viruses. It is also used as an additive to flavor foods and beverages. In addition, it is used as a preservative for food, beverages, and medicine. It occurs as colorless crystals or a white powder and is sometimes in anhydrous or monohydrate form.
Anhydrous Citric acid has similar properties to Citric acid monohydrate. The difference is the crystallization procedure. While the monohydrate Citric acid is crystallized in cold water, the anhydrous forms are crystallized in water at a temperature of 78 degrees Celsius. In the process, it loses all the water within the crystals.
Citric Acid Uses
There are various forms of Citric acid, and the usage of the chemical depends on its form. Manufacturers use Citric acid worldwide:
As a disinfectant and cleaning agent
- Citric acid is often used to kill bacteria, viruses, mold, and mildew as well as to get rid of rust, soap scum, calcium deposits, and more. An example of Citric acid used as a disinfectant and cleaning agent is at home, where many people mix Citric acid with water and then clean kitchen surfaces.
As an additive in foods and beverages
- Citric acid adds flavor to foods and beverages, enhance flavor, and preserve ingredients by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. Some examples of Citric Acid use as an additive can be seen in wine & soda to improve flavor.
As a preservative
- Citric Acid acts as a great preservative because Citric Acid’s high acidity makes it so that bacteria, mold, and any other harmful substance cannot grow. An example of Citric acid as a preservative can be seen in canned foods, where the chemical is often added to help prevent botulism.
As a reactant with sodium bicarbonate
- Citric acid when reacting with sodium bicarbonate is useful in antacid powers and tablets. The effect of the reaction is also used to manufacture personal care products such as bath bombs and bath salts.
Is Citric Acid Safe?
Consuming and interacting with Citric acid is widely considered to be safe. After all, Citric acid is used abundantly in almost all sodas. According to the Citric acid MSDS, using the chemical as an industrial product is generally considered safe, although the chemical can cause serious eye irritation and should be handled with care. During processing, Citric acid may also form combustible dust concentrations in air. Proper storage and disposal of Citric acid needs to be taken into consideration in order to avoid any unwanted effects.
How is Citric Acid Made?
In factories, Citric acid is mainly manufactured by the submerged fermentation technique using Aspergillus niger, a well-known fungus. Chemical synthesis of Citric acid is also possible, but it is much more expensive than the common and thoroughly developed fermentation technique.
Where to Buy Citric Acid in Bulk?
You may be able to find Citric Acid in small quantities in your area. But if you want to buy large quantities of Citric acid, it is preferable to import directly from the manufacturers. They can issue certifications and provide cost savings which is better than buying the chemical in small quantities locally or from a distributor. If you require bulk quantities of this chemical, you can buy Citric acid on our website.
Which Countries Manufacture Citric Acid in Bulk?
The main producers of Citric acid are China, the United States, and Europe. Consumption of Citric acid has increased dramatically across the world, especially in developing countries.
How is Citric Acid Exported?
- Anhydrous Citric acid is shipped in various packaging:
- 25kg composite paper plastic bags
- 25kg 3-ply kraft paper bags
- 500kg plastic woven bags
- 1000kg woven jumbo bags.
- Monohydrate Citric acid is shipped
- 25kg composite paper plastic bags
- 500kg plastic woven bags
- 1000kg woven jumbo bags.
Where To Buy Citric Acid?
Here at RamChemSupply we have Citric Acid for sale. We export worldwide, so you can contact us for a FREE quote.