E381 – Ammonium Ferric Citrate
EmulsifierDescription
Brown or red crystals or powder; odorless or slight ammoniacal odor; soluble in water; used as a food additive to prevent caking and as a source of iron
Notes
Ammonium ferric citrate is created by combining iron salts with citric acid and ammonia. This chemical reaction produces distinctive brown or reddish crystals that are rich in iron. The citric acid component comes from the same source as other citric acid additives - usually fermentation of sugars by mold - while the iron comes from iron salts. This combination creates a form of iron that the body can more easily absorb than some other iron compounds. This additive serves a dual purpose: it acts as both an iron supplement (adding nutritional iron to foods) and as an anti-caking agent (preventing powdered foods from clumping together). You'll find it in some iron-fortified cereals, powdered drink mixes, and dietary supplements. Its anti-caking properties also make it useful in powdered foods like some spice blends and instant drink mixes. Ammonium ferric citrate is synthetically manufactured and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans since no animal products are used in its production. For people with iron metabolism disorders like hemochromatosis (where the body absorbs too much iron), foods containing this additive should be consumed cautiously. It's considered safe for general consumption and is actually beneficial for people who need additional iron in their diet, such as those with iron deficiency.