Applications in Various Industries:
- Food Industry: Used as an acidulant, flavor enhancer, and preservative in beverages, dairy products, and processed foods.
- Cosmetic and Personal Care: Found in moisturizers, peels, and exfoliants as a pH adjuster and skin conditioning agent.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: Used in the production of biodegradable polymers (e.g., polylactic acid) and as a component in medications.
Where is Lactic Acid Found?
- Natural Sources: Produced naturally by bacteria during the fermentation of sugars (e.g., in yogurt and sourdough).
- Industrial Production: Produced by the fermentation of glucose or lactose using lactic acid bacteria.
- Consumer Products: Found in food products, cosmetics, and biodegradable plastics.