What is Citric Acid Anhydrous?
Chemical Profile and Key Characteristics
Citric acid anhydrous is a white, crystalline organic acid with the chemical formula C₆H₈O₇—identical to its monohydrate counterpart, minus the water molecule. It is obtained primarily through fermentation of molasses or glucose using non-toxic fungal strains like Aspergillus niger, followed by purification and crystallization.
The “anhydrous” form means that the compound contains no water of crystallization, making it more concentrated, with a longer shelf life and faster solubility in dry applications. It is odorless, sour-tasting, and highly soluble in water and ethanol.
Because of its purity and stability, citric acid anhydrous is widely used across multiple sectors—from food and pharmaceuticals to cleaning products and water treatment.
Difference Between Anhydrous and Monohydrate Forms
The key difference lies in moisture content and solubility behavior:
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Anhydrous: Water-free, faster dissolving, ideal for dry mixes, powders, and long-shelf-life applications.
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Monohydrate: Contains one water molecule, better for liquid applications and more cost-effective where slight water content isn’t an issue.
At New Indureg Chemicals, we offer premium-grade citric acid anhydrous, meeting FCC, USP, and E330 food additive specifications.
Citric Acid Anhydrous in the Food and Beverage Industry
Flavor Enhancer and Preservative
Citric acid anhydrous is a key ingredient in the global food industry. Its sour taste makes it ideal for balancing flavors in sweet and savory foods. It also acts as a natural preservative, preventing spoilage and extending shelf life by:
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Lowering pH
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Inhibiting microbial growth
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Preventing enzymatic browning
You’ll find it in:
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Fruit-flavored drinks
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Candies and chewing gum
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Jams, jellies, and marmalades
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Canned and jarred foods
Applications in Soft Drinks, Candy, and Baking
Citric acid anhydrous is the acid component in carbonated beverages, where it reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce a fizzy texture. It’s also used in gelatin desserts, powdered drink mixes, and flavored salts.
In baking, it functions as a leavening aid, reacting with baking soda to create carbon dioxide and help dough rise. It also improves flavor depth in cakes, biscuits, and pastries by adding a subtle tang.
Use in Pharmaceuticals and Health Products
As a Stabilizing and pH-Regulating Agent
Citric acid anhydrous is widely used in medications and health supplements due to its chelating, antioxidant, and pH-modulating properties. It helps stabilize active ingredients and prevents degradation in:
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Vitamin C supplements
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Injectable solutions
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Lozenges and chewable tablets
It also binds metal ions, preventing undesirable reactions and ensuring product integrity and safety.
Role in Effervescent Formulas and Oral Solutions
One of the most common pharmaceutical uses is in effervescent tablets. When combined with sodium bicarbonate and water, citric acid generates carbon dioxide, creating a fizzy reaction that improves taste and bioavailability.
Effervescent and powder-based products that benefit from citric acid include:
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Electrolyte drink mixes
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Digestive aids
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Vitamin tablets and powders
Industrial and Technical Applications
Detergents, Descalers, and Water Treatment
Citric acid anhydrous is a safe, biodegradable acid used to:
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Remove limescale and rust
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Soften water
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Clean metal surfaces and remove oxidation
It’s particularly valued in eco-friendly detergents, dishwasher tablets, and toilet cleaners for its ability to chelate calcium and magnesium ions, making cleaning agents more effective.
Cosmetics, Toiletries, and Cleaning Formulations
In personal care products, citric acid serves to:
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Adjust pH in shampoos and lotions
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Act as a mild exfoliant in face cleansers
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Prevent product spoilage by inhibiting microbial growth
It’s often found in:
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Skincare serums
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Bath bombs
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Toothpaste and mouthwash
Its non-toxic and biodegradable profile makes it a go-to acid in sustainable product formulations.
Why Choose New Indureg Chemicals for Citric Acid Anhydrous?
Quality, Certifications, and Traceability
New Indureg Chemicals is a Belgium-based supplier specializing in bulk industrial and food-grade chemicals. Our citric acid anhydrous is:
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FCC, E330, and USP-compliant
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Supplied with COA, SDS, and TDS
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Produced under ISO-certified manufacturing
We ensure full batch traceability, consistent purity, and competitive pricing for clients in food, pharma, cosmetics, and industrial sectors.
Bulk Supply and Logistics Support Across Belgium and EU
Our logistics network allows for:
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Next-day delivery across Belgium
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Flexible packaging formats (25 kg bags, 500–1000 kg jumbo sacks)
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Custom palletizing and export-ready shipments
Whether you’re a manufacturer, formulator, or distributor, New Indureg Chemicals provides top-tier service and consistent product availability year-round.
Storage, Handling, and Shelf Life Guidelines
Proper Storage Practices
Citric acid anhydrous should be stored in:
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Cool, dry, and well-ventilated spaces
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Airtight containers away from moisture and heat
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Areas free of reactive agents like alkalis and oxidizers
Exposure to humidity can lead to clumping or premature dissolution, so proper sealing is essential after each use.
Packaging Formats Available at New Indureg
We offer citric acid anhydrous in:
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25 kg paper or PE-lined bags
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500 kg–1000 kg jumbo sacks
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Custom bulk packaging upon request
With proper storage, citric acid anhydrous remains effective for up to 3 years.
