Real Food Sprouting Aid Makes a Great Substitute for Salt Natural Preservative Vegetarian - Vegan Product If you're into sprouting then you're already familiar with Citric Acid, a natural preservative typically found in citrus fruits such as lemons and limes. Citric Acid helps to inhibit the formation of mold and other bacterial growth, an all-too-common occurrence when sprouting in a jar due to high temperatures and humidity. Citric Acid is also useful for canning vegetables and fruit preserves. Because you are what you eat, NOW Real Food has been committed to providing delicious, healthy, natural and organic foods since 1968. We're independent, family owned, and proud of it. Keep it natural. Keep it real.