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Hydrochloric acid

Hydrochloric acid suppliers and sourcing guide

Hydrochloric acid is a water solution of hydrogen chloride gas. Food-grade acid is usually made by burning hydrogen in chlorine from chlor-alkali plants and absorbing the gas in purified water, or recovered from other chemical processes and purified. Processors buy it as a liquid, typically around 31 to 37 percent, to adjust pH, hydrolyze proteins and starches, and regenerate ion exchange resins.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
Muriatic acid · Hydrogen chloride solution · E507 · CAS 7647-01-0
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of hydrochloric acid

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Concentrated (about 31 to 37 percent)

    The standard commercial strengths, shipped in drums, totes and bulk tankers.

  • Dilute solutions

    Lower-strength acid for smaller users and lab work, easier to handle.

  • Food grade (FCC)

    Acid tested to the Food Chemicals Codex; technical grades can carry more metals and organic impurities.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Assay (titration)
Hydrogen chloride content by titration with sodium hydroxide, which sets the dose.
Iron
Iron content, which colors the acid and is limited in food grades.
Sulfate and free chlorine
Common process impurities.
Non-volatile residue
Residue on evaporation, a check on dissolved solids.
Heavy metals and arsenic
Lead, mercury and arsenic by ICP-MS against FCC limits.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Store hydrochloric acid in closed, acid-resistant containers such as HDPE or lined tanks, in a cool, well-ventilated area away from bases, oxidizers and metals; fumes are corrosive. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, and the strength is checked before use if containers have been open.

Lots and expiry dates

Record the strength and grade of each lot, since dosing depends on the measured concentration. Keep food-grade acid separate from technical-grade stock and label transfer containers.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Hydrochloric acid suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking hydrochloric acid suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of hydrochloric acid can brands buy?

Common forms include concentrated (about 31 to 37 percent), dilute solutions and food grade (FCC). Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for hydrochloric acid include?

Expect assay (titration), iron, sulfate and free chlorine, non-volatile residue and heavy metals and arsenic, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should hydrochloric acid be stored?

Store hydrochloric acid in closed, acid-resistant containers such as HDPE or lined tanks, in a cool, well-ventilated area away from bases, oxidizers and metals; fumes are corrosive. Shelf life is set by the supplier's specification, and the strength is checked before use if containers have been open.

What is the regulatory status of hydrochloric acid?

21 CFR 182.1057 lists hydrochloric acid as generally recognized as safe when used as a buffer and neutralizing agent in accordance with good manufacturing practice. Health Canada's List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials includes hydrochloric acid, for example in beer.

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