Citric acid, a colorless crystalline tricarboxylic acid substance, is one of the most important and widely used organic acids.
Interest in citric acid is growing due to its ability to enhance flavor and preserve products, as well as its natural origin.
While most people associate citric acid with its culinary use, few are aware of its complex chemical nature and methods of production, which go far beyond simple citrus fruit juice extraction.
Citric acid plays a significant role in the body’s biochemical processes, including the citric acid cycle, making it not only a dietary component but also a significant element in maintaining metabolic function, especially in the context of the ketogenic diet, where fat metabolism is the primary energy pathway.
Production of Citric Acid
Citric acid is a weak tribasic acid that is found in many plants, especially in citrus fruits.
The chemical formula of citric acid is C6H8O7.
Industrial production of citric acid is currently mainly done through the fermentation method.
In this process, strains of the mold fungus Aspergillus niger are used to ferment sugars, converting them into citric acid.
The process involves several stages: substrate preparation, inoculation, fermentation, and purification of the final product. The fermentation technology allows for the production of high-purity citric acid, which is in demand in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.
The Role of Citric Acid in the Ketogenic Diet
Citric acid plays an important role in metabolic processes of the human body, being part of the citric acid cycle, which is key in energy production within cells.
In the context of the ketogenic diet, activation of this cycle is particularly important, as with low carbohydrate consumption, the body switches to using fats and ketone bodies as the primary source of energy.
When following a ketogenic diet, consumption of products rich in citric acid may contribute to improved digestion and enhanced detoxification processes in the body.
Citric acid itself does not contain calories, proteins, fats, or carbohydrates.
Application of Citric Acid in Household
Citric acid is widely used in the food industry as a preservative and acid regulator, helping to maintain the freshness of products and stabilize their color and taste.
It acts as a natural antioxidant, preventing oxidation and spoilage, and is often added to products, including beverages, candies, canned fruits and vegetables, as well as ice cream and many other products.
In household applications, citric acid is used in cooking and as an environmentally friendly cleaning agent.
It is used for preparing homemade marinades, syrups, in canning, and as a natural preservative to extend the shelf life of homemade products.
Additionally, it serves as a natural water softener, making it useful for pickling vegetables and making certain types of cheese.
As an eco-friendly cleaning agent, citric acid is used to remove limescale, rust, and other deposits from kitchen utensils and surfaces. Its gentle yet effective cleaning properties make it a popular choice for those who prefer natural alternatives to chemical cleaners.
Substitution options in recipes
Lemon. 6 tsp of lemon juice is equivalent to 1 g of acid. The juice provides not only acidity but also a citrus aroma. For curdling milk, use cold juice; for marinades, heat for 1 minute to deactivate the enzymes.
