Tsütroonhappe

Tsütroonhappe, also known as citric acid, is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes. Its chemical formula is C6H8O7. It is a tricarboxylic acid and plays a vital role in the Krebs cycle, a fundamental metabolic pathway in living organisms that generates energy.

Industrially, tsütroonhappe is produced primarily through the fermentation of carbohydrates by the mold Aspergillus niger. It is widely used as a food additive, acting as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and acidifier. Its tart taste makes it a common ingredient in beverages, candies, and jams. Beyond food, tsütroonhappe has applications in the pharmaceutical industry as an effervescent agent and a chelating agent. It is also utilized in cleaning products due to its ability to dissolve mineral deposits and its mild acidic properties. Furthermore, it finds use in cosmetics and personal care products. The compound is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies for its intended uses.