Acidulants are an essential ingredient in sharp, zesty food products. These acids are what give fruit its characteristic tang, and most of those that are added to food products are common in nature.

For example, citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, malic acid is found in apples, and tartaric acid in grapes. They are important in products such as jams, where the acidity of the fruit determines how it will set. Acids also have preservative and antioxidant properties.”