What Is Citric Acid Anhydrous？

Citric acid is a weak organic acid commonly used in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry. The parent base of citric acid, citrate, is a component of the Krebs cycle, and occurs naturally during metabolism in all living organisms. It is found naturally in citrus fruit such as lemons and limes and is used as a natural preservative. Anhydrous citric acid has had the water molecules removed and is usually in a dry, powdered formulation.

History

Citric Acid was discovered in the 8th century and although people were aware of the acidic nature of limes and lemons, there was little information about the discovery and uses until later years. It wasn’t until 1784 when a Swedish chemist, Carl Scheele was able to crystallize lemon juice. In World War I citric acid became important to industries.

Uses

There are many uses for this dry form of citric acid. It can be used in flavorings, cosmetics, candy, gelatin, jams, jellies, soft drinks and fruit. It has the ability to retard discoloration and retain flavor and vitamins. Salts or citrates of citric acid is also used as anticoagulants and are used to lower the citric acid in urine to treat kidney stones by lessening calcium deposits. Anhydrous citric acid has been used to control Caribbean Tree Frogs on the Hawaiian Islands.

Environmental and Health Impact

Citric acid helps reduce toxins in the environment because it is an all natural ingredient in many products. The cleaners made wither citric acid as an active ingredient reduces production of chemical cleaners. Pharmaceutical use of citric acid reduces the toxins manufactured and ingested. Fewer people are allergic to the natural ingredient, though some may have a stomach or skin sensitivity to products that use citric acid.

Warnings

Avoid heat and flames around the substance. Caution needs to be taken with this substance as it will cause respiratory irritation and can also cause eye and skin irritations. Wear protective clothing when handling citric acid. This chemical substance has the ability to ignite dust explosions under certain conditions.