Acid Regulators

Products

Acid regulators are available as pure substances in specialized stores, for example in pharmacies and drugstores. They are found in numerous foods as additives (with E numbers) and in medicines as excipients.

Structure and properties

Acidity regulators are organic and inorganic acids and bases. Some examples are listed below: Acids:

  • Adipic acid
  • Malic acid
  • Ascorbic acid
  • Fumaric acid
  • Lactic acid
  • Phosphoric acid
  • Hydrochloric acid
  • Sulfuric acid
  • Tartaric acid
  • Citric acid

Bases:

  • Calcium carbonate
  • Sodium carbonate
  • Sodium hydrogen carbonate
  • Sodium hydroxide

Effects

Acidity regulators change the acidity or basicity of products. They impart an acidic taste to food and medicinal products, modify their properties, and some have preservative, clarifying and antioxidant effects.

Fields of application

To adjust, modify and control the pH of foods and medicines.

Adverse effects

Acids can attack tooth enamel and contribute to erosion and tooth decay. Other possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort.