Iron-citrate complexes and free radicals generation: is citric acid an innocent additive in foods and drinks?
The generation of free radicals (Fenton chemistry) from various iron citrate complexes has been studied. Spin trapping methods have been used. The results can question concerning the innocence of added citric acid in foods and cold drinks. We concluded that in absence of pathological situation citric acid is probably not dangerous but it may become dangerous in situation of oxidative stress and/or iron overload.
Gautier-Luneau
Isabelle
I
Laboratoire de Chimie Biomimétique, LEDSS, UMR CNRS 5616, Université Joseph Fourier, BP 53, 38041, Grenoble Cedex 9, France. Isabelle.Gautier-Luneau@grenoble.cnrs.fr
Bertet
Perrine
P
Jeunet
André
A
Serratrice
Guy
G
Pierre
Jean-Louis
JL
D019343:Citric Acid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D032084:Citrus sinensis / Q000378:metabolism; D005503:Food Additives / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D005609:Free Radicals / Q000378:metabolism*; D017665:Hydroxyl Radical / Q000378:metabolism; D007501:Iron / Q000378:metabolism*; D019190:Iron Overload / Q000378:metabolism; D018384:Oxidative Stress / Q000502:physiology
D005503:Food Additives; D005609:Free Radicals; D019343:Citric Acid; D017665:Hydroxyl Radical; D007501:Iron