emulsifier INS 472c

Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides E472c

fatty acid derivative — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Citroglycerides

CAS: 91744-35-3

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

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 Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

Citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides (CITREM) are produced by esterification of mono- and diglycerides with citric acid. They function as emulsifiers and stabilizers with additional antioxidant properties from the citrate groups. Used in processed meats, sauces, and dairy analogs. JECFA considers them acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA reviewed citric acid esters of mono- and diglycerides in 2016. Approved in the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia. CITREM is particularly useful in emulsified meat products where it stabilizes fat-water emulsions and chelates metal ions.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides 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

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Approved for use at quantum satis in specified food categories

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe)

GRAS status for use in food

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Approved for general food use

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

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

Manufacturing

Method: chemical esterification

Produced by reacting mono- and diglycerides (derived from vegetable oils or animal fats) with citric acid under controlled heating conditions with appropriate catalysts.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in cosmetic products as emulsifier and antioxidant

Medical

Used in some pharmaceutical formulations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472c)?

Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides (E472c) is a emulsifier used in food products. It is fatty acid derivative and synthetic. Synthetic emulsifier created by esterifying mono- and diglycerides with citric acid. Particularly useful in fat-based systems and has antioxidant properties due to the citric acid component.

What is the ADI for Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is not specified as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides?

Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is used in various food categories including Fats and oils, Cereals and cereal products, Fine bakery wares. It is used as a emulsifier in these products.

Is Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides the same as CITREM?

Yes, Citric Acid Esters of Mono- and Diglycerides is also known as CITREM, Citric acid esters, Citrated monoglycerides. These are different names for the same substance.