What is the Difference Between Malic Acid and Citric Acid? (2025)

Malic acid and citric acid are both organic acid compounds classified as carboxylic acids due to their carboxylic groups (-COOH). They are found in various fruits and are responsible for their sour taste. However, there are several differences between malic acid and citric acid:

1. Chemical Structure: Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C4H6O5, while citric acid is a tricarboxylic acid with the chemical formula C6H8O7.
2. Origin: Malic acid is derived from apples and other fruits, while citric acid is derived from citrus fruits.
3. Taste: Citric acid has a sharp, tart, and citrusy flavor, while malic acid has a slightly sweeter, fruity flavor.
4. Texture: In gummy candy, citric acid provides a firmer and more elastic texture, while malic acid provides a softer and more gummy texture.
5. pH Level: Citric acid has a lower pH level, making it more acidic, while malic acid has a higher pH level, making it less acidic.
6. Availability: Citric acid is more widely available and less expensive than malic acid.

Both acids can be used effectively in various food and beverage applications, and sometimes they are used in combination to achieve the desired flavor and texture.

Comparative Table: Malic Acid vs Citric Acid

Malic acid and citric acid are both organic acid compounds, but they have some differences in terms of their structure, taste, and pH levels. Here is a comparison between the two:

Malic acid is a dicarboxylic acid found in various fruits, and it has a slightly sweeter taste than citric acid. Citric acid is a tricarboxylic acid found in citrus fruits, and it has a tart and sour taste. Malic acid has a higher pH level, making it less acidic than citric acid, which has a lower pH level and is more acidic.