No, citric acid is not a vitamin.
Based on information from February 8, 2022, citric acid is clearly defined as not fitting into the category of vitamins.
Understanding Citric Acid
Citric acid is described as a weak organic acid. You naturally find this substance in many popular citrus fruits and their juices, such as orange juice.
Why It's Not a Vitamin
The provided reference explicitly states that citric acid is not an essential mineral or vitamin. Unlike true vitamins, which are organic compounds required in small amounts for normal metabolic function and growth, citric acid does not fulfill these criteria from an essential dietary perspective.
Is Citric Acid Necessary in Your Diet?
According to the reference, you don't need to include it in your diet. This further distinguishes it from essential nutrients like vitamins, which are required for basic bodily functions. While not essential, the reference does note that some effects of citric acid may be beneficial for health, but this doesn't change its classification.
In summary, while citric acid is a natural compound found in food and may have some health effects, it is factually not considered a vitamin or an essential mineral.
