What is Citric Acid?
Citric Acid is one of the most widely used organic acids globally, naturally occurring in citrus fruits and commercially produced through the fermentation of sugar by Aspergillus niger mould. It is a white, odourless, crystalline powder available in both anhydrous and monohydrate forms, with a characteristic sour taste that is far milder and more rounded than tartaric or other food acids, making it the most popular acidulant across the global food and beverage industry.
Polychem Industries supplies Citric Acid in food grade (anhydrous and monohydrate) and pharmaceutical grade to beverage manufacturers, food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and cleaning product formulators across India and internationally. Its versatility as an acidulant, preservative, chelating agent, and pH adjuster makes it one of the most universally used food and industrial ingredients.
Available Grades
| Grade | Form | Purity | Standard | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food Grade (Anhydrous) | White crystalline powder | 99.5%+ (Food / Pharma Grade) | FSSAI / FCC / E330 | Beverages, food preservation, confectionery, dairy products |
| Food Grade (Monohydrate) | White crystalline powder | 99.5%+ | FSSAI / FCC | Same as anhydrous — preferred where free moisture is acceptable |
| Pharma / Technical Grade | White crystalline powder | 99.5%+ | USP / BP / IP / Technical | Pharmaceuticals, cleaning agents, cosmetics, water treatment |
Applications & Uses
Beverages & Soft Drinks
The largest application globally. Citric Acid is used as an acidulant in carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices, and flavoured beverages to provide tartness, enhance flavour, and act as a natural preservative against microbial growth.
Confectionery & Candy
Used extensively in sour candies, gummies, and confectionery products to provide tartness and flavour enhancement, often in combination with other acids to achieve specific flavour profiles.
Food Preservation & Canning
Used as a preservative and pH adjuster in canned foods, jams, and preserved fruits, helping prevent microbial spoilage and preserving colour and flavour during extended storage.
Dairy Products
Used in processed cheese and dairy products as an acidulant and emulsifying salt component, helping control texture and pH during manufacturing of products such as processed cheese.
Pharmaceutical Formulations
Used in effervescent tablets, syrups, and various pharmaceutical formulations as a pH adjuster, flavouring agent, and chelating agent to improve stability and effectiveness of active ingredients.
Cleaning Products & Cosmetics
Used as a natural, biodegradable chelating agent in household cleaning products, descalers, and personal care formulations including shampoos and skincare products as a pH adjuster.
Technical Specifications
Citric Acid — Key Properties
Why Source Citric Acid from Polychem Industries?
- Anhydrous, Monohydrate, and Pharma Grade all available from one supplier
- FSSAI compliant Food Grade supply with Certificate of Analysis
- Pharma Grade meets USP / BP / IP specifications
- Reliable bulk supply for beverage, food, and pharmaceutical manufacturers
- Competitive pricing with consistent year-round availability
- Export documentation experience for international shipments
