what is lactic acid in food

Lactic acid is an organic acid that forms when certain foods go through the process of fermentation. It is a natural preservative that can be found in many fermented foods, including yogurt, pickled vegetables, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and sourdough bread. Lactic acid is also added to some processed foods as a preservative and flavoring to prevent spoilage and enhance the taste. It is primarily found in or made using fermented vegetables, cereals, and legumes, which makes it a vegan substance. Lactic acid helps control the pH of food, which prevents it from spoiling and enhances its flavor. It is a natural byproduct created during the fermentation process of many healthy foods, and it contributes to the tangy flavor of these foods. Lactic acid is generally considered safe by the FDA and is approved for use in most food products, apart from infant foods and formula.