This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

What Is Sodium Citrates?

Sodium citrates (monosodium, disodium, and trisodium citrate) are salts of citric acid used as acidity regulators, emulsifying salts, and sequestrants in processed cheeses, ice cream, carbonated drinks, and meat products. They buffer pH, stabilize emulsions, and chelate metal ions that could catalyze oxidation. JECFA considers sodium citrates acceptable with no numerical ADI (they metabolize to carbon dioxide and water). EFSA confirmed safety in 2018. They are essential ingredients in processed cheese production, enabling uniform melting behavior (as emulsifying salts).

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Sodium Citrates is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Sodium Citrates has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

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European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in most food categories

Official EFSA Link

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United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Generally Recognized As Safe for use in food

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Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate. The degree of neutralization determines which form is produced: monosodium citrate (E331i), disodium citrate (E331ii), or trisodium citrate (E331iii). Trisodium citrate is the most commonly used form in food applications.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

pH adjuster and buffering agent in skincare and haircare products.

Medical

Blood anticoagulant for transfusions and testing, urinary alkalinizer, buffering agent in medications.

Industrial

Cleaning agents, detergents, water softening, photography.

Household

Descaling agent, cleaning products, dishwasher detergent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sodium Citrates (E331)?

Sodium Citrates (E331) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is buffering agent, sequestrant, emulsifier and synthetic (from citric acid). Sodium citrates do not occur naturally but are derived from citric acid, which is naturally abundant in citrus fruits. They are the sodium salts of citric acid.

What foods contain Sodium Citrates?

Sodium Citrates is used in various food categories including Cheese and cheese products, Non-alcoholic beverages. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.

Is Sodium Citrates the same as Sodium citrate?

Yes, Sodium Citrates is also known as Sodium citrate, Trisodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate, Citrosodine. These are different names for the same substance.