Acidity Regulator: Sodium Citrate

Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid. It is a white crystalline powder that is odorless and has a strong, tart, salty taste. It is produced commercially by the neutralization of citric acid with sodium hydroxide or sodium carbonate.

Sodium citrate is used as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, and preservative. It helps to control the pH of foods, prevent spoilage, and create a smoother texture in products like cheese and ice cream. It is commonly found in candies, sodas, jams, and processed cheeses.

Sodium citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food. It is also approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). International bodies like JECFA have evaluated it. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Some research suggests it may have a mild blood-thinning effect, but this is not a concern at normal dietary intake.