This product is a food-grade citric acid crystal produced via a deep-layer biological fermentation process using corn as the raw material; it is a multifunctional organic acid ingredient that balances practicality with cost-effectiveness. Unlike ordinary acidifying agents on the market-which often suffer from insufficient purity and high impurity levels-this product undergoes multiple recrystallization steps as well as low-temperature dehydration and screening. The resulting crystals are pure white and translucent, offering a clean, fresh, and crisp acidity. A single ingredient can simultaneously meet multiple production needs-such as flavor balancing (adjusting acidity and sweetness), color retention in fruits and vegetables, metal ion chelation, and the inhibition of unwanted microbial growth-making it suitable for diverse production processes, including dry powder blending, liquid formulation, and pickling.
In food processing, traditional acidifying agents often present issues such as bitter aftertastes, browning of finished products during storage, powder clumping due to moisture absorption, and separation when mixed with other ingredients. This high-purity citric acid crystal was specifically developed to address these pain points. Produced on a fully enclosed, sterile fermentation line that eliminates external contamination, the product features extremely low moisture content, ensuring stability and resistance to clumping during long-term storage. It delivers a refreshing, citrus-like acidity that is smooth rather than harsh, ensuring it does not mask the natural aromas of ingredients such as fruit juices, dairy products, or pastries. Its addition lowers the system's pH to inhibit mold growth and preserves the natural color of ingredients; furthermore, it allows for reduced usage of other color-stabilizing and preservative additives, effectively controlling production costs. With standardized export packaging, the product is suitable for general cargo transport (eliminating the need for a cold chain) and comes with complete, compliant customs documentation, making it a staple core ingredient for food manufacturers worldwide.

Basic Physicochemical Parameters

Appearance	Uniform, pure white crystalline granules; free from visible impurities or clumping.
Odor	Clean, mild citrus acidity; free from off-odors or burnt notes.
Citric acid content (dry basis)	≥99.5%
Moisture	≤0.5%; low hygroscopicity, resistant to moisture absorption during prolonged storage.
Fineness	Standard 40–80 mesh; 100-mesh ultra-fine powder available upon request.
Aqueous solution pH (1% concentration)	2.1–2.6; mild acidity that preserves the nutritional integrity of raw materials.
Heavy metal limits	Lead, arsenic, and mercury levels comply with EU and US standards for food-contact materials.
Microbiology	No pathogenic bacteria detected; total viable count strictly controlled within international limits.

Storage, Packaging, and Shelf Life

1. Export packaging: 25kg paper-plastic composite bags (with food-grade PE waterproof inner liner); 500g/1kg vacuum-sealed sample bags

2. Storage conditions: Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse; keep away from moisture and direct sunlight

3. Shelf life: 24 months under standard storage conditions (unopened)

4. Transport classification: General chemical cargo; does not require refrigeration or hazardous material transport certification

Core Product Advantages

1. High-purity crystals with consistent batch specifications

Produced via a fully enclosed, aseptic fermentation line that eliminates impurities and heavy metal residues, the product features uniform crystal size-free from fine powder clumping or yellowing impurities. Every batch undergoes comprehensive testing prior to release, with COA and SDS documentation available. It holds international certifications such as ISO22000, HALAL, KOSHER, and FDA, facilitating smooth cross-border customs clearance without the need for additional re-testing.

2. Refreshing, natural fruity acidity suitable for all flavor profiles

It offers a fresh, mellow citrus-like acidity without harsh chemical notes or astringency. It does not mask the inherent flavors of fruit juices, dairy products, or confectionery, allowing for excellent balance between sweet and sour notes. Small additions significantly improve palatability, making it the ideal acidity regulator for carbonated drinks, powdered beverage mixes, candies, and pickled products.

3. Multifunctional performance reduces formulation costs

Beyond basic acidification, the product features excellent metal-chelating capabilities, sequestering iron and copper ions to prevent oxidation and discoloration in beverages and jams. Its acidic environment inhibits mold and yeast growth, extending shelf life. Additionally, it enhances the efficacy of antioxidants, allowing for reduced usage of color-stabilizing and preservative additives in the formulation.

4. Rapid dissolution and excellent compatibility

It dissolves quickly and completely in both cold and hot water, resulting in a clear, transparent solution without sediment. It blends seamlessly with sweeteners, hydrocolloids, flavors, colorants, milk powder, and fruit/vegetable powders without separation or flocculation, making it suitable for various production processes, including dry powder premixing, liquid blending, and extruded snack manufacturing.

5. Low storage and transport costs; export-compliant packaging

A crystallization and drying process ensures controlled moisture content, preventing moisture absorption or clumping during storage in standard dry warehouses at ambient temperatures. Packaging options include standard 25kg food-grade kraft paper bags with PE liners and optional 1kg vacuum-sealed sample bags. As it ships as general dry cargo, no cold chain logistics are required, significantly reducing warehousing and shipping expenses for overseas customers.

Mainstream Application Areas

1. Beverage Industry: Carbonated drinks, fruit juice concentrates, powdered fruit-flavored mixes, sports nutrition powders, and tea bases; used to adjust the sweet-and-sour balance, stabilize color, and delay oxidation.

2. Snack Foods: Hard and soft candies, jellies and puddings, candied and preserved fruits, biscuits and pastries, and puffed snacks; used to improve mouthfeel, inhibit mold growth, and brighten the product's appearance.

3. Dairy Processing: Yogurt, milk-based beverages, and cheese products; used to balance the richness of dairy flavors and stabilize protein systems.

4. Personal Care & Cosmetics: Toners, body washes, and additives for cleansing and care products; used to adjust skin pH and gently soften the stratum corneum.

5. Animal Feed Industry: Compound premixes for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture; used to regulate gastrointestinal pH, promote mineral absorption, and enhance feed palatability.