Sodium Citrate (E331) — What You Need to Know
What Is Sodium Citrate?
Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid, one of the most widely used food additives in the world. It appears as a white crystalline powder with a pleasant, salty-sour taste. It serves as a highly effective pH buffer, emulsifier, and sequestrant across a vast range of food and beverage applications.
What Is It Used For?
Used as a buffering agent to maintain stable pH in beverages, as an emulsifier in processed cheese, and as a sequestrant that binds metal ions to prevent oxidation and off-flavors.
Safety Assessment
One of the most widely used food additives globally. Acts as a buffer to maintain stable pH, an emulsifier in processed cheese, and a sequestrant that binds metal ions to prevent oxidation. Also used as an anticoagulant in blood banking (sodium citrate tubes). No safety concerns whatsoever. The body metabolizes citrate as part of the Krebs cycle. Used in medicine as an alkalizing agent for urinary tract.
Based on current evidence, Sodium Citrate is rated Safe with a score of 10/10. This is 1.2 points above the average for acidity regulators (8.8/10). Last reviewed by regulators: 2017.
Commonly Found In
Always check the label for E331 or 'Sodium Citrate'
▶Chemical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium Citrate
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E331
- INS Number
- INS 331
- Category
- Acidity Regulators
- Origin
- Synthetic
- FDA Status
- GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe)
- EFSA Status
- ADI not specified — approved quantum satis (no maximum level, use at minimum needed)
- ADI
- Not specified mg/kg bw/day
- Last Review
- 2017
Related Additives
Other acidity regulators in the same family