Tag: Synthetic citric acid

According to the FDA, the manufactured citric acid found in most processed foods is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), yet growing evidence suggests potential issues for sensitive individuals. The question of is there a healthy citric acid is critical for consumers seeking to make informed dietary choices and understand the subtle but significant differences between natural and synthetic forms.

Over 2 million tons of citric acid are manufactured globally each year, making it one of the world's most common food additives. While naturally present in citrus fruits, this pervasive synthetic version poses potential risks for susceptible individuals.

Over 2 million tons of citric acid are produced globally each year, primarily for use as a food additive. Citric acid is a common ingredient in processed foods, but its source and potential effects are often misunderstood. Is the synthetic version of this substance truly bad for you, or is it a safe and versatile compound?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes citric acid as safe, but experts note that excessive consumption, particularly of the manufactured form, can have adverse effects. This raises the important question: can you have too much citric acid in your body?

An estimated 70% of manufactured citric acid is used in the food and beverage industry. However, unlike the natural version found in citrus fruits, synthetic citric acid is produced via a fermentation process using a black mold, *Aspergillus niger*. This has raised questions about what are the side effects of synthetic citric acid, particularly for sensitive individuals.