Are Ascorbic Acid and Citric Acid the Same Thing?
Summary: Ascorbic Acid Is Found in Citrus Fruits as Well as Citric Acid, but Citric Acid Does Not Contain Vitamin C. Ascorbic Acid Is Natural, Citric Acid Is...
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Then, is citric acid the same as ascorbic acid?
Citric acid is an organic acid and a natural component of many fruits and fruit juices. It is not a vitamin or mineral and is not required in the diet. However, citric acid, not to be confused with ascorbic acid (vitamin C), is beneficial for people with kidney stones.
Likewise, is citric acid stronger than ascorbic acid? Citric acid is a stronger acid than ascorbic. Therefore, it allows less "margin for error” as smaller amounts compared to ascorbic acid produce similar pH changes.
Hereof, can I use ascorbic acid instead of citric acid?
Citric Acid can be substituted – it will adjust the acidity (lower the pH) of the fruit, which is what you want to do. 1/4 teaspoon powdered Citric Acid is equivalent to 1 Tablespoon lemon juice. Ascorbic Acid cannot be substituted for lemon or lime juice or vinegar in a Pomona's recipe.
What can I use instead of ascorbic acid?
An alternative to using an ascorbic acid solution is to simply use fruit juices that are naturally high in ascorbic acid -- particularly lemon, orange, pineapple, cranberry, and grape juice.
