"Salts and acids are said to 'wake up' the palate, and allow it to
appreciate
flavors. Without those, food tastes flat. "
Stephen
Citric acid is added to many "soft drinks"/"pop"/ "cold drinks"/etc. for
that "twang". I use it for adding acidity and flavor to modern "low-acid"
tomatoes during canning. It also helps retain canned fruit colors. It is
sold commercially under a copyrighted name but I buy mine from a chemical
supply house. It is much cheaper than lemon juice away from citrus-growing
areas, but not as "natural".
Doc