Lactic Acid in Industry: Manufacture, Properties & Key Uses

Naturally derived through fermentation and fully biodegradable, lactic acid is a versatile industrial compound.

Commercial fermentation of lactic acid started in the 1980s. Since then, it has become a key sustainable building block of industry, with roles in food production, cosmetics, cleaning, plastics and pharmaceuticals.

How is lactic acid made at scale in industry?

Industrial lactic acid is manufactured by fermentation of simple sugars such as sucrose and glucose (commonly sourced from corn, beets and cane sugar), by lactic acid bacteria in an oxygen-free environment.

The resulting fermentation broth contains the lactic acid and some other unreacted sugars. The broth is then purified, typically through crystallisation and acidification.

Extra purification steps can be applied depending on the grade required – for example, if the lactic acid is intended for food or pharmaceutical use.

These modern fermentation methods are consistent and scalable, delivering high quantities of bulk product.

What is lactic acid used for in industry?

Lactic acid’s gentle acidity, antimicrobial action and biodegradability give it a wide range of industrial applications. The largest share of the acid globally goes into food and beverage applications, cleaning products and bioplastics production.

• Food and beverage – as a food additive (E-number E270), lactic acid regulates pH, preserves freshness and can provide a mildly sour flavour. Major applications include dairy, pickles, baked goods, soft drinks, juices, beer and fermented products.
• Cleaning products – a natural descaler and antimicrobial, with uses in household and industrial liquid cleaning products for removal of hard water deposits.
• Plastics – the primary feedstock for polylactic acid (PLA), a very popular biodegradable plastic used in packaging, textiles and other single-use items.
• Cosmetics – commonly used to regulate pH, improve exfoliation and provide antimicrobial benefits to skin and personal care formulations.
• Pharmaceuticals – used in the production of water-soluble medicines and in formulations for IV solutions and drug delivery.

Future outlook and trends for lactic acid market

The global lactic acid market is forecast to grow rapidly – from $US3.9bn (£2.9bn) to $US8.5bn (£6.3bn) over the next decade until 2035, an average annual rate of growth of 8%.

In terms of volume, the current lactic acid market size most recently valued at 1.81 million tonnes, and is estimated to reach 3.71 million tonnes in 2033.

This growth is driven by demand for food preservatives, natural cosmetics and biodegradable plastics – all high-volume sectors.

Airedale Group: leading suppliers of quality ingredients solutions

As well as acidulants like lactic acid, our BRCGS-accredited Food & Beverage division offers a full range of solutions for food and beverage producers and formulators.

We work with some of the biggest names across the UK and Europe, providing fast, flexible and secure delivery through our private vehicle fleet.

Browse our F&B product range or contact our product experts for advice on your specific requirements.

Lactic Acid

Lactic Acid 80% (Technical Grade)