Acid
Also known as: Acidifier, Acidulant, tartness, provides tartness, Food acid
Generic 'acid' is a non-specific label that prevents an individual safety assessment. Most permitted acids (citric, lactic, malic) are GRAS at typical use levels, but phosphoric acid in cola is associated with reduced bone density at heavy intake.
What it is
Generic umbrella label for unspecified food acidulants (e.g., citric, malic, lactic, phosphoric, tartaric).
Acidulant; flavor adjustment, preservation, pH control.
What regulators actually say
"Citric acid (C6H8O7, CAS Reg. No. 77-92-9)... is generally recognized as safe when used in food in accordance with good manufacturing practice."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Specific acids individually GRAS or authorized food additives
European Union — EFSA
Specific acids each have their own E number/authorization
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app