Calcium Citrate (E333) — What You Need to Know
What Is Calcium Citrate?
Calcium citrate is the calcium salt of citric acid, a white crystalline powder used extensively as both a food additive and a calcium supplement. It is one of the most bioavailable forms of supplemental calcium, particularly effective when taken without food. It serves as an acidity regulator and firming agent in processed foods.
What Is It Used For?
Used as a calcium fortifier in juices and foods, as an acidity regulator in processed products, and as a preferred calcium supplement form for individuals with low stomach acid.
Safety Assessment
Calcium salt of citric acid, widely used as a calcium supplement. Better absorbed than calcium carbonate when taken on an empty stomach (does not require stomach acid for absorption). Also used as an acidity regulator and firming agent. No safety concerns. Provides approximately 21% elemental calcium. Preferred calcium source for people taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or with low stomach acid.
Based on current evidence, Calcium Citrate is rated Safe with a score of 9/10. This is 0.2 points above the average for acidity regulators (8.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2017.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E333 or 'Calcium Citrate'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Calcium Citrate
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E333
- INS Number
- INS 333
- Category
- Acidity Regulators
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe)
- EFSA Status
- ADI not specified — considered safe with no numerical limit needed
- ADI
- Not specified mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2017
Related Additives
Other acidity regulators in the same family