Good Active Ingredient NOAEL Data GHS Classified

Citric Acid R

CAS Number

77-92-9

Function

Anti-scaling agent; Antioxidant; Biocide; Chelating agent; Chemical reaction regulator; Cleaning agent; Crystal growth modifiers (nucleating agents); Deflocculant; Deodorizer; Flavouring and nutrient; Foamant; Fragrance; Leavening agent; No specific technical function; Other; Preservative; Processing aids not otherwise specified; Softener and conditioner; Solvent; Stabilizing agent; Surfactant (surface active agent); pH regulating agent

Safety Rating

GOOD

Regulatory Status

🇪🇺 EU Status permitted

🇺🇸 US Status permitted

For full compliance data across 55 jurisdictions, use the Substance Compliance tool.

Safety Data

Margin of Safety (MoS)

not established

Dermal Absorption

low

Sensitization

low

Calculate MoS for your specific formulation with the MoS Calculator.

Toxicological Studies

4 study endpoints found for Citric Acid R. NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) values are used to calculate the Margin of Safety per SCCS methodology.

Endpoint	Value	Route	Species	Study Type	Source
NOAEL	4000 mg/kg bw/day	oral	rat	oral	REACH
NOAEL	250 mg/kg bw/day	2011	rat	other	REACH
NOAEL	1000 mg/kg bw/day	oral	mouse	oral	REACH
NOAEL	4000 mg/kg bw/day	oral	rat	oral	REACH

GHS Hazard Classification

Globally Harmonized System classification per ECHA C&L inventory and ILO/WHO International Chemical Safety Cards.

Short-term Exposure Effects

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.

Long-term Exposure Effects

The substance may have effects on the teeth. This may result in erosion.

Routes of Exposure

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

Expert Verdict

Citric acid is generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use with a good safety profile.

⚠️

Concern Level: Low

Regulatory Flags

eu_children_restricted epa_safer_alternative ifra_fragrance fda_food_additive

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Citric Acid R safe in cosmetics?

Citric acid is generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use with a good safety profile. The EU classifies Citric Acid R as "permitted". Safety rating: GOOD. 4 toxicological study endpoint(s) are available in our database.

Is Citric Acid R allowed in the EU?

Citric Acid R EU regulatory status: permitted. This is based on EU Regulation 1223/2009 and its amendments.

What does Citric Acid R do in cosmetics?

Citric Acid R functions as: Anti-scaling agent; Antioxidant; Biocide; Chelating agent; Chemical reaction regulator; Cleaning agent; Crystal growth modifiers (nucleating agents); Deflocculant; Deodorizer; Flavouring and nutrient; Foamant; Fragrance; Leavening agent; No specific technical function; Other; Preservative; Processing aids not otherwise specified; Softener and conditioner; Solvent; Stabilizing agent; Surfactant (surface active agent); pH regulating agent. It is classified as a Active Ingredient in our database. CAS number: 77-92-9.

What is the Margin of Safety for Citric Acid R?

not established The Margin of Safety (MoS) is calculated using SCCS methodology. A MoS above 100 is generally considered safe. Use the MoS Calculator tool to calculate MoS for your specific formulation and product category.

What is the NOAEL for Citric Acid R?

The NOAEL (No Observed Adverse Effect Level) for Citric Acid R is 4000 mg/kg bw/day based on a oral study via oral route in rat. A total of 4 study endpoints are available. Source: REACH.

Compliance Tools

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82 Allergen Checker

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Substance Compliance

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MoS Calculator

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Heavy Metal Limits

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