E331 – Sodium Citrates
CitrateDescription
White crystalline powder or granules, odorless, with a saline taste
Notes
Sodium citrates are white, crystalline powders created by combining citric acid with sodium compounds. Since citric acid comes from citrus fruits (though commercially it's made through fermentation), sodium citrates are essentially the sodium salts of this natural acid. The manufacturing process involves neutralizing citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate, creating different types of sodium citrate depending on how much sodium is added. As an acidity regulator, sodium citrates help maintain the right pH balance in foods, keeping them from becoming too acidic or too alkaline. They're particularly valuable in dairy products like processed cheeses, where they help create that smooth, creamy texture by preventing the proteins from clumping together. You'll also find them in soft drinks, jams, jellies, and various processed foods where consistent acidity levels are crucial for both taste and food safety. Sodium citrates are considered safe and natural-origin additives suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and most religious dietary requirements. However, people watching their sodium intake should be aware that these additives do contribute to the overall sodium content of foods, though typically in relatively small amounts. They're widely approved by food safety authorities around the world and are generally recognized as very safe for consumption.