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Citric Acid

General Information

• Chemical Class: Organic acid/Antimicrobial/Fungicide
• Uses: Used as a disinfectant, sanitizer and fungicide to kill odor-causing bacteria, mildew, pathogenic fungi, certain bacteria and some viruses; and to remove dirt, soap scum, rust, slime and calcium deposits. Citric acid products are used in bathrooms, and in/on dairy and food processing equipment.
• Alternatives:
• Beyond Pesticides rating: Least-toxic

Health Effects

• EPA Acute Toxicity Class: III (slightly toxic)
• Cancer: Not documented
• Endocrine Disruption: Not documented
• Reproductive Effects: Not documented
• Neurotoxicity: Not documented
• Kidney/ Liver Damage: Not documented
• Sensitizer/ Irritant: Yes (8)
• Birth/ Developmental Defects: Not documented

Environmental Effects

• Detected in Groundwater: Not documented
• Detected in Streams: Not documented
• Potential Leacher: Not documented
• Toxic to Birds: Not documented
• Toxic to Fish/ Aquatic Organisms: Not documented
• Toxic to Bees: Not documented
• Toxic to Mammals: Not documented
• Long-Range Transport: Not documented

Additional Information

• Regulatory Information:
  • EPA Reregistration Review Decision signed (11/2009)
  • Minimum Risk Pesticides FIFRA 25(b) Exemption
• Supporting information:
  • PAN Pesticides Database: (Pesticide Action Network)
• Key Studies: