Just curious as to the advantages of adding Citric Acid and Preservatives to my syrup when I mix them. I know the concentrate will last about 1 year if stored in a cool area but let's say if I mixed up a gallon of Strawberry. What is the shelf life for this with and without the Citric Acid and Preservative? Also if stored in a cool shaded place vs in the refridgerator?

Does adding these chemicals actually give the syrup a better taste or will there be any aftertaste? Can the Citric Acid be added to any flavor?

Thanks for the responses.

The citric & benzo do not really add flavor but they do help preserve your syrup. I have not had any mixed syrup go bad on me using preservatives as is suggested by all the manufactures. I do not think you will find a simple syrup recipe that does not call or them. Not sure what the shelf life would be if they are not used. you can add additional citric into a flavoed bottle of syrup to sour it up if you choose but I prefer to use sour spray. I do not store my mixed syrup in refrigerator but leave them on the shelf and do not have any issues.