What You Need to Know About Lactic Acid
For workout enthusiasts, lactic acid is associated with sore muscles. Is this myth even true? Surprisingly, lactic acid is a phenomenal immune system booster and has a bevy of health benefits, which is why food additive supplier Bell Chem proudly stocks it in its spacious warehouse.
Lactic Acid Basics
When foods ferment, yeasts, bacteria, fungi, or molds eat carbohydrates to generate acid (such as lactic acid), alcohol, or gas. The product is often lactic acid. This fermentation is beneficial to the human body, and the “acid” portion of its name means a lower pH, which prevents bacterial growth. To manufacturers, this equates to a more stable product with a longer shelf life.
Lactic Acid as a Gel
When lactic acid comes into contact with dairy proteins, hydrogen bonds chain the atoms together, forming a gel-like structure. This greatly enhances the texture of yogurt and soft cheese. In non-dairy products, lactic acid and hydrocolloids such as carrageenan form a similar matrix. Plant-based milks and cheeses produced by trending industries owe a huge amount of their structures to lactic acid.
Curing with Lactic Acid
Sausages and cured meats rely on lactic acid because of its low pH, which creates an environment unfavorable for microbial growth. Acids such as lactic acid also denature proteins, breaking the long protein strands into smaller protein segments, which changes their texture as well as their flavor.
Fermentation with Lactic Acid
One of the key roles of lactic acid in the food industry is in fermentation. The bacteria involved in lactic acid production are known collectively as lactic acid bacteria (LAB). These bacteria convert sugar, such as lactose or starch, into lactic acid. In turn, the lactic acid lowers the pH of the product and causes it to ferment, releasing the increased flavors and textures associated with fermented foods.
Health Benefits of Lactic Acid
As mentioned previously, lactic acid strengthens the human immune system by providing the foods in which it has additive antioxidant properties. Lactic acid also assists in vitamin and mineral absorption which aids in defraying infections. It also acts as a cellular marker, directing white blood cells to the site of an ongoing infection.
During anaerobic exercise, your cells create energy from available carbohydrates. The end product is lactic acid, which your body generally filters through the liver or kidneys to create glucose.
Bell Chem is a food additive supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse, including lactic acid. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.