There are several different acids that can be used in gummy candy recipes to add flavor, improve texture, and prevent spoilage. Some common acids used in gummy candy recipes include:
-
Citric acid: Citric acid is a common food acid that is derived from citrus fruits. It is used to add a tart, sour flavor to gummy candy and can also help improve the texture by providing some firmness and elasticity.
-
Malic acid: Malic acid is another common food acid that is derived from apples and other fruits. It is used to add a tart, sour flavor to gummy candy and can also help improve the texture by providing some firmness and elasticity.
-
Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is a food acid that is used to add flavor and prevent spoilage in gummy candy. It can also help improve the texture by providing some firmness and elasticity.
-
Tartaric acid: Tartaric acid is a food acid that is derived from grapes and other fruits. It is used to add a tart, sour flavor to gummy candy and can also help improve the texture by providing some firmness and elasticity.
Overall, the type of acid that is used in a gummy candy recipe will depend on the desired flavor profile and texture, as well as the specific ingredients and equipment that are available. Experimenting with different acids can be a fun and rewarding way to create unique and delicious gummy candy recipes.
Which is better citric acid or malic acid?
Both citric acid and malic acid are common food acids that can be used in gummy candy recipes to add flavor, improve texture, and prevent spoilage. However, which acid is better will depend on the specific application and the desired flavor profile. Here are some key differences between citric acid and malic acid:
-
Flavor: Citric acid has a sharp, tart, and citrusy flavor, while malic acid has a slightly sweeter, fruity flavor.
-
Texture: Citric acid can provide a firmer and more elastic texture to gummy candy, while malic acid can provide a softer and more gummy texture.
-
Availability: Citric acid is more widely available and less expensive than malic acid.
Ultimately, the choice between citric acid and malic acid will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the recipe. Both acids can be used effectively in gummy candy recipes, and it is often possible to use them in combination to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
What's the difference between malic and citric acid?
Malic acid and citric acid are both common food acids that are used to add flavor, improve texture, and prevent spoilage in a variety of products, including gummy candy. However, there are some key differences between the two acids:
-
Origin: Malic acid is derived from apples and other fruits, while citric acid is derived from citrus fruits.
-
Texture: Malic acid can provide a softer and more gummy texture to gummy candy, while citric acid can provide a firmer and more elastic texture.
-
Availability: Citric acid is more widely available and less expensive than malic acid.

What are some similarities between citric and malic acid?
Both malic acid and citric acid are organic acid compounds. They can be categorized as carboxylic acids because they have carboxylic groups (-COOH groups). Both these acids are responsible for the sour taste in certain fruits. Therefore, these compounds are useful as food additives as well
Is malic or citric acid more acidic?
Malic acid and citric acid are both food acids that are used to add flavor, improve texture, and prevent spoilage in a variety of products, including gummy candy. In terms of acidity, citric acid is generally considered to be more acidic than malic acid.
Citric acid has a pH of around 2.2, which makes it a relatively strong acid. Malic acid has a pH of around 3.4, which makes it a weaker acid. The difference in acidity between the two acids is due to the fact that citric acid contains three carboxyl groups, while malic acid contains only two.
While both citric acid and malic acid can be used effectively in gummy candy recipes, the choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the recipe. Citric acid may be preferred in applications where a strong, tart flavor is desired, while malic acid may be preferred in applications where a slightly sweeter, fruity flavor is desired. It is also possible to use a combination of both acids to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
Common Citric Acid Uses
Citric acid has many uses in food. It serves as a flavor enhancer, a pH regulator, and as a preservative.
Citric acid and its salts also help prevent crystallization in honey, are used in clarifying fruit juices and to stabilize spices. Citric acid is most often used in beverages. In fact, about 65 percent of citric acid consumed is used in drinks. You’ll commonly find it in carbonated drinks. It’s also common in wine coolers, cocktail mixers and iced tea. You’ll also find it in candy, dried fruit, canned fruit, jams and jellies and gelatin.
Common Malic Acid Uses
Malic acid is primarily used in fruit-flavored drinks. It stabilizes their color and also enhances flavor. For example, it’s commonly found in low-calorie drinks, where it masks the off-flavor of artificial sweeteners. You’ll also find it in cider and apple-flavored drinks, candy, gum, fruit butters and jams and jellies.