Is Citric acid bad for you?
Also listed as: INS 330, E330, acidity regulator 330
Short answer
Safe. It’s the acid naturally found in lemons, usually made by fermentation. The only practical concern is tooth enamel in acidic drinks.
What it is
An acidity regulator and flavour enhancer that adds sourness and helps preserve food.
Where you’ll see it
Soft drinks, candies, jams, packaged juices, canned foods and snacks.
+ The good side
- Naturally present in citrus fruits
- Helps keep colour and flavour stable
− The other side
- Acidic drinks sipped all day can erode tooth enamel
Who should pay attention
Frequent soft-drink or juice drinkers.
💡 What to do: Drink acidic beverages with meals rather than sipping all day.
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Sodium benzoate
Approved and considered safe within set limits. Worth limiting in sugary soft drinks, especially combined with vitamin C, and for children sensitive to additives.
Potassium sorbate
One of the most studied, lowest-risk preservatives. It stops mould and yeast; rare skin sensitivity has been reported.
General food information, not medical advice. Exact limits and labelling rules vary by country. If you have a medical condition or allergy, follow your doctor’s or dietitian’s advice.