Organic acids commonly appear in various components of prepared meals. They can be particularly useful for microbial control in refrigerated foods. However, the acids differ both in regard to the types of organisms each are effective against and also, in their ability to retard microbial growth. For example, benzoic acid (found in this teriyaki sauce) is so effective it is regulated as a preservative and—generally—cannot be used in USDA meats. Malic and citric acid are less effective, while lactic acid has intermediate anti-microbial abilities.
The 12.8- to 13.6-oz. products in the Dinner Starters line retail nationwide for $3.99 each.