Bulk Food-Grade Citric Acid: A Manufacturer's Guide
Published
Share
Citric acid is one of the most widely used food acids in the agri-food industry. Acidity regulator, preservative, flavour enhancer, and sequestrant, it appears in a vast range of products: beverages, confectionery, canned goods, dairy, and supplement preparations. This guide is for Canadian manufacturers and formulators looking to source food-grade citric acid in bulk.
What Is Citric Acid?
Citric acid (E330, CAS 77-92-9) is a tricarboxylic organic acid naturally present in citrus fruits. Sold as a white crystalline powder, it is produced industrially by fermentation. Food-grade material assays at 99.5–100.5% purity with excellent water solubility.
Functions in Food Formulation
Acidity regulator: adjusts and stabilizes pH, influencing both taste and preservation.
Flavour enhancer: delivers a clean, sharp tartness that lifts fruit flavours in beverages and confectionery.
Preservative: lowering pH inhibits the growth of certain microorganisms and extends shelf life.
Sequestrant: chelates metal ions, protecting the colour and stability of oxidation-sensitive products.
Typical Applications
Beverages: soft drinks, juices, energy drinks, and drink powders — acidity and taste balance.
Confectionery: sour candies, jellies, and gummies.
Canned goods and sauces: pH control and microbiological stability.
Supplements and functional powders: acidulant and effervescence agent when paired with a bicarbonate.
Technical Specifications
E number: E330
CAS number: 77-92-9
Purity: 99.5–100.5%
Appearance: white or almost white crystalline powder
Moisture: ≤ 0.5%
Heavy metals: ≤ 10 ppm · Lead (Pb) ≤ 0.5 ppm
A full certificate of analysis (COA) is available on request for every lot.
Anhydrous or Monohydrate?
Citric acid comes in two forms: anhydrous and monohydrate. The anhydrous form contains no water of crystallization and is preferred for dry blends and moisture-sensitive products. The monohydrate contains one water molecule and is often used in solution. The right choice depends on your process and finished-product format — contact us to determine the form suited to your application.
Buying Bulk Food-Grade Citric Acid in Canada
LiquidShop supplies food-grade citric acid in bulk by the kilogram for Canadian manufacturers and formulators. Sourcing from a Canadian supplier means shorter lead times and simplified logistics. Certificates of analysis are provided on request. Contact us to discuss your application and bulk pricing.
