Gastropod Is Your Cinnamon Fake? Where Does Kefir Come From? Plus: Why Is Citric Acid In Everything? Ask Gastropod!
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Dec 16, 2025 Is your cinnamon really authentic? Discover why most on grocery shelves isn't! Dive into the fascinating origins of kefir, tangled in a story of ancient mummies and royal intrigue. Plus, learn about the ubiquitous citric acid—what it is, why it’s everywhere, and its surprising history tied to life-saving technologies. This festive exploration answers listener curiosities with delightful food science revelations!
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Listener’s Reaction To Citric Acid
- Rosemary discovered citric acid in an Italian sausage gave her a severe headache one night.
- She now avoids many packaged foods because citric acid often triggers symptoms for her.
Citric Acid’s Many Functional Roles
- Beyond flavor, citric acid acts as a preservative by lowering pH to inhibit microbial growth.
- It also works as an antioxidant to prevent browning in cut and frozen produce.
Why Citric Acid Is In Everything
- Industrial citric acid is inexpensive and GRAS-designated, which helps its ubiquity in packaged foods.
- Its low production cost and versatility drive its use across jams, sauces, meats, and pharmaceuticals.