Citric acid

Citric acid is an organic acid naturally found in many fruits, particularly citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. It is also produced by the body during the Krebs cycle, a central metabolic process involved in cellular energy production. A synthetic form, obtained through fungal fermentation, is widely used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. In dietary supplements, citric acid primarily acts as an excipient and acidity regulator. It contributes to the stability of formulations and helps preserve active ingredients by limiting oxidation. Its ability to chelate certain metal ions also supports the absorption of specific minerals. Citric acid holds significant technological value in supplementation: it improves the solubility and bioavailability of many active ingredients, especially minerals in citrate form (such as magnesium citrate or zinc citrate). It is generally well tolerated and considered safe at the doses typically used in nutritional formulations.