While we totally understand how Manufactured Citric Acid (MCA) can sound scary, the reality is it's safe, effective, and the most popular preservative used in food production. Listen, we get the whole "black mold" thing. Our citric acid source is derived from Cassava - the root of a plant. You'll find Citric Acid naturally occurring in many fruits. In fact, the MCA form is what gives sour gummy worms and Salt & Vinegar chips their flavor. It's a very common cooking ingredient. There is no research to support any negative effects from Citric Acid from the derivative source or levels you'll find in our products.