Citral

Citral is a naturally occurring organic compound that is found in the essential oils of many citrus fruits, including lemon, lime, orange, and bergamot. It is a mixture of two geometric isomers: geranial (trans-citral) and neral (cis-citral). Citral is responsible for the characteristic citrus scent and flavor of these fruits.

Citral is widely used in the food, beverage, cosmetic, and fragrance industries. Some of its common uses include:

1. Flavoring: Citral is used to impart a citrus flavor to food and beverages. It is commonly added to candies, soft drinks, chewing gum, and baked goods.

2. Fragrance: Citral is used in perfumes, colognes, and other fragrance products due to its fresh, citrusy aroma. It is often used as a top note in citrus-based fragrances.

3. Aromatherapy: Citral is used in aromatherapy for its uplifting and invigorating properties. It is believed to have mood-enhancing effects and can help alleviate stress and fatigue.

4. Antimicrobial Properties: Citral exhibits antimicrobial properties and is used as a natural preservative in food and cosmetic products. It helps inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, thereby extending the shelf life of products.

5. Insect Repellent: Citral is also used as an ingredient in insect repellent products due to its strong odor, which acts as a deterrent to mosquitoes, flies, and other insects.