Citric acid
From Ukcider
Contents |
What is it?
L-Citric acid is a naturally occurring fruit acid, found in many fruits and vegetables. Most people will know it as the "sharp" taste in lemon juice.
What is it used for?
It has mild antioxidant properties, but typically in industrial cider it it used as a flavouring agent to add or regulate acidity. It can be used along with its salts Monosodium citrate and Trisodium citrate in a buffering system to stabilize the degree of acidity.
How is it produced?
By bacterial fermentation of sugar-rich waste products.
Is it safe?
Yes. Commercially produced L-Citric acid is identical to that found in a lemon or orange.
So whats the problem?
Properly produced real cider should not need the addition of acidity to be drinkable. Use of acidity regulators is only required where production is made from sweet tasting dessert apple juice or concentrate, lacking in natural acidity
