Acidulants - Citric Acid | Acetic Acid | Malic Acid | Tartaric Acid | Lactic Acid | Phosphoric Acid

Acidulants are chemical compounds extensively used as additives in the manufacturing of food and beverages. This versatile group of substances is primarily utilized to give sour, or acidic flavor, while also serving as preservatives, pH adjusters, leavening agents, and coloring agents.

Acidulants play an important role in the food industry. When added to foods and beverages, they provide several benefits, being the functional additives. In addition to their ability to improve taste, they also help extend the shelf life of products and assist in pH regulation. Acidulants’ roles in the food industry include:

>Change in the taste – Acidulants add a sour taste to foods, enhancing their flavor profile.
>pH adjustment – they are utilized for pH regulation, especially when it is necessary to control the pH level in order to achieve optimal gel strength in jellies or jams.
>Preserve – acids lower the pH level which helps inhibit the growth of bacteria. They also enhance the effectiveness of preservatives such as benzoates, sorbates and propionates.
>Antioxidant action – some acidulants possess antioxidant properties, so they help prevent or delay the oxidation of food components and preserve the quality and appearance of food.