Citric acid is a weak organic acid. It is used a natural preservative and is added to several foods and beverages because of its sour taste. According to Apac Chemical Corporation, citric acid is also used in foods and beverages to control pH levels and as an antioxidant. Citric acid is a natural component of many varieties of fruit humans consume on a regular basis.
Citrus Fruits
All varieties of citrus fruits naturally contain citric acid. The highest citric acid concentration is found in lemons and limes, in which citric acid composes up to 8 percent of the dry weight of the fruit, according to Science Daily. Other varieties of citrus fruit such as oranges and grapefruit also contain high concentrations of citric acid, although much lower than lemons and limes. According to the World's Healthiest Foods website, citrus fruits such as lemons and limes also contain high quantities of vitamin C and limonins, which promote optimal health in the human body.
Pineapples
Pineapples naturally contain citric acid. According to the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, citric acid comprises up to 87 percent of the acid content contained in pineapples. The remaining 13 percent of the pineapple acids are malic acid and ascorbic acid. According to World's Healthiest Foods, pineapples are also a good source of manganese, vitamin C and vitamin B1, which can promote optimal health in the body.
Strawberries
Strawberries are another fruit that naturally contains citric acid. According to an article in the journal Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, strawberries contain the greatest amount of citric acid before they are entirely ripe. As strawberries mature and ripen, the citric acid content decreases. According to World's Healthiest Foods, strawberries are also a great source of vitamin C, manganese, fiber and iodine.
Cranberries
Cranberries are also a source of natural citric acid. According to World's Healthiest Foods, cranberries are also rich in vitamin C, fiber, manganese and vitamin K. Consumption of cranberries and cranberry products has been shown to benefit the health of the human urinary tract.
References
- Science Daily: Citric Acid
- Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry: Nonvolatile acids in pineapple juice
- Accuvin LLC: Titratable Acidity Tests
- Molecular Nutrition and Food Research: Non-volatile organic acids of lemon juice and strawberries during stages of ripening
- World's Healthiest Foods: Cranberries
- World's Healthiest Foods: Lemons/Limes
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