... formula of C3H6O3. It has a hydroxyl group adjacent to the carboxyl group, making it an alpha hydroxy acid ... (AHA). In solution, it can lose a proton from ... is coagulated (curdled) by lactic acid. Although it can be fermented from lactose (milk sugar), ... as cornstarch, potatoes and molasses. Thus, although it is commonly known as "milk acid", vegan ...