Citric acid is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a flavor enhancer and preservative. It adds a sour taste to products like soft drinks, candies, and jams, while also helping to stabilize and extend their shelf life. In the pharmaceutical sector, it is used as an excipient in tablets and syrups to improve stability and absorption. Additionally, citric acid is a key component in cleaning products, where it effectively removes limescale and rust due to its chelating properties. It is also utilized in cosmetics and personal care items to adjust pH levels and act as a preservative. In industrial applications, it serves as a biodegradable and environmentally friendly agent for water softening and metal cleaning.