Preservative
Citric Acid
A mild acid that helps preserve fats and adjust acidity.
Citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruit, though most of it is now made by fermentation. In pet food it helps other antioxidants protect fats from going rancid, and it adjusts acidity. AAFCO lists it among the preservatives on labels.
The amounts are small, and it isn’t a source of fruit or vitamin C.
Also written as: Citric Acid (preservative), Citric Acid (a preservative), Citric Acid (used as a preservative).
Sources
Updated November 2, 2026. General information, not veterinary advice.