Citric acid anhydrous is produced as translucent crystals and as white crystalline powder. It is odorless and has a strong acidic taste. Citric acid anhydrous is very soluble in water and freely soluble in alcohol. Storage in tight containers away from heat and humidity (75oF and 55% RH) is recommended. Citric acid is widely used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries to impart a clean, refreshing tartness. Its prime use is as an acidulant, but it is also used as sequestrant of metal ions to give protection from the development of off-flavors and off-odors in certain foodstuffs. A major industrial use of citric acid is in the manufacture of ecologically compatible detergents. It is also used in chemical cleaning, concrete admixtures, plasticizers, and a range of other applications.