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Citric acid (E330)
Citric acid is a acidity regulator / antioxidant used in soft drinks, sweets, jams, sauces.. EFSA has published no numeric acceptable daily intake for it.
What it does
The acid of citrus fruit; the most common additive of all.
Where you meet it
Soft drinks, sweets, jams, sauces.
This page describes the general scientific position. Allergies and sensitivities are individual: if your body disagrees with an additive, avoid it regardless of any ADI.
Sources: EFSA — food additives re-evaluations · Open Food Facts — additives taxonomy · checked 2026-09-03
Frequently asked questions
What is Citric acid (E330)?
Acidity regulator / antioxidant. The acid of citrus fruit; the most common additive of all. It is used in Soft drinks, sweets, jams, sauces.
How much citric acid is safe?
EFSA published no numeric ADI, which usually means the substance is so benign that no limit needed to be set — or that intake is self-limiting. The assessment itself is still a full safety evaluation.
Should I avoid citric acid?
For a healthy adult there is no reason to avoid it at typical intakes. If you have a diagnosed sensitivity or a health condition, your clinician's advice is the one that counts.
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