Product: Citric Acid Monohydrate
Rchem Citric Acid Monohydrate is a high-purity, tricarboxylic organic acid, presented as white, crystalline granules or powder with one molecule of water of crystallization. It is a natural constituent of citrus fruits and is commercially produced through the microbial fermentation of carbohydrates. This versatile acidulant is a fundamental ingredient in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cleaning product industries, prized for its sharp, refreshing sour taste, potent chelating ability, and effective role as a pH adjuster and preservative.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
Property
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Product Origin
PALM DERIVATIVES STATUS
VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between Citric Acid Monohydrate and Anhydrous Citric Acid?
The sole difference is the presence of water. Citric Acid Monohydrate contains one water molecule per citric acid molecule, making it ideal for general-purpose use in liquids and wet formulations. Citric Acid Anhydrous has no water and is preferred for dry powder blends, effervescent products, and applications where moisture introduction must be strictly minimized to prevent caking or reactivity.
Yes, it is one of the safest and most widely used food additives worldwide. It is classified as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) by the U.S. FDA and is a natural intermediate in the human body's Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle).
Is Citric Acid Monohydrate safe to consume?
It preserves through two main mechanisms: Acidification: It lowers the pH of a product, creating an environment where many spoilage-causing bacteria, yeasts, and molds cannot grow. Chelation: It binds to essential metal ions that act as cofactors for enzymatic processes in microorganisms, disrupting their metabolism.
How does Citric Acid function as a preservative?
Its acidic nature allows it to effectively dissolve alkaline mineral deposits like limescale (calcium carbonate) and rust. Additionally, its chelating power helps to soften hard water by binding to calcium and magnesium ions, which improves the efficiency of surfactants in soaps and detergents.
Why is Citric Acid used in cleaning products? A: Its acidic nature allows it to effectively dissolve alkaline mineral deposits like limescale (calcium carbonate) and rust. Additionally, its chelating power helps to soften hard water by binding to calcium and magnesium ions, which improves the efficiency of surfactants in soaps and detergents.
As an organic acid in solid form, the powder can be irritating to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. It is advisable to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses when handling to prevent dust inhalation and direct contact. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety and handling instructions
