What Is Citric Acid Monohydrate?
Chemical Properties and Structure
Citric acid monohydrate is a naturally occurring organic acid with the molecular formula C₆H₈O₇·H₂O. It’s a white, crystalline powder derived mainly through fermentation of sugars using Aspergillus niger fungi. The “monohydrate” form contains one molecule of water for every molecule of citric acid, making it slightly less concentrated than its anhydrous counterpart.
Known for its tart flavor and acidic properties, citric acid monohydrate is a key ingredient in a wide array of products—from food and drinks to pharmaceuticals and personal care formulations. It is non-toxic, biodegradable, and pH-stabilizing, making it an eco-friendly and safe option across many industries.
Monohydrate vs Anhydrous: What’s the Difference?
While both forms of citric acid serve similar purposes, they differ in moisture content and solubility:
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Monohydrate: Contains water, commonly used in foods and beverages; dissolves more slowly.
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Anhydrous: Water-free version; preferred where precise moisture control is critical (e.g., pharmaceuticals).
At New Indureg Chemicals, we supply food- and pharma-grade citric acid monohydrate, fully compliant with EU safety and purity regulations.
Applications Across Industries
Food and Beverage Industry
Citric acid monohydrate is a cornerstone ingredient in food and drink production. It enhances flavor, balances pH, and preserves freshness in:
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Carbonated beverages
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Fruit juices and jams
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Confectionery and gelatin desserts
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Canned vegetables and ready meals
Thanks to its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status, citric acid is trusted by food technologists and manufacturers worldwide. Its tangy taste and ability to inhibit microbial growth make it invaluable in modern food preservation.
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics
In the pharmaceutical sector, citric acid monohydrate is used as:
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A stabilizer in effervescent tablets
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A pH adjuster in oral solutions and syrups
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A chelating agent to bind calcium or iron
In cosmetics and personal care, it’s often found in:
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Shampoos and conditioners
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Facial cleansers and toners
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Bath bombs and exfoliants
It gently adjusts pH levels while also helping remove mineral deposits from the skin and hair—making products more effective and safer to use.
Cleaning Agents and Detergents
Citric acid monohydrate also acts as a natural, non-toxic cleaning agent, widely used in eco-friendly cleaning solutions. It breaks down:
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Limescale and soap scum
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Rust and hard water stains
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Bacterial biofilms
It’s commonly added to dishwashing liquids, toilet cleaners, and descaling solutions for its ability to dissolve calcium and prevent build-up on surfaces.
New Indureg Chemicals – Belgium’s Trusted Supplier
Who We Serve
New Indureg Chemicals proudly supplies citric acid monohydrate to:
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Food and beverage manufacturers
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Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies
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Personal care and cosmetic formulators
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Cleaning product producers
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Agricultural and industrial chemical processors
With operations based in Belgium, we deliver across the EU and globally, backed by competitive pricing, fast delivery, and rigorous quality standards.
Why Clients Choose New Indureg for Citric Acid
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Premium Grade: FCC-compliant, food/pharma-grade citric acid
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Documentation Support: COA, SDS, and TDS provided with every shipment
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Flexible Logistics: Bulk delivery options tailored to your operation
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Customer-Centric Service: Transparent pricing, technical advice, and reliable lead times
Our goal is to ensure you receive not just a product—but a solution that powers your formulations and production efficiently.
Functional Benefits of Citric Acid Monohydrate
Acidulant and Flavor Enhancer
Citric acid monohydrate delivers a pleasant tartness, widely used in fruit-flavored foods and beverages. It:
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Enhances sour and citrus notes
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Balances sweetness and acidity
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Improves flavor profiles in sauces, dairy, and candy
As a natural acidulant, it’s also used to activate leavening agents like baking soda, ensuring proper rise and texture in baked goods.
Preservative and Antioxidant
Citric acid works as a chelating agent, binding metals that can catalyze spoilage reactions. This:
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Extends shelf life
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Prevents discoloration and oxidation
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Keeps food and pharmaceuticals fresh and potent
It’s also used in vacuum-packed and freeze-dried foods as a microbial growth inhibitor.
Packaging, Storage, and Safety Guidelines
Bulk Supply Options
New Indureg Chemicals provides citric acid monohydrate in:
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25 kg multi-layer paper bags with PE liners
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500 kg to 1-ton jumbo sacks
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Custom palletization for international shipping
Each batch comes with full traceability, documentation, and compliance certificates.
Handling and Long-Term Storage Recommendations
To maintain quality and stability:
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Store in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas
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Avoid direct sunlight and exposure to moisture
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Keep away from incompatible substances like strong alkalis
Shelf life is typically up to 3 years when stored under recommended conditions.
