Ingredient · E331

And Sodium Citrate As Needed

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium citrate is often used as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, and preservative. It helps …

What it is

Sodium citrate is the sodium salt of citric acid. It is a white 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.

Why it's used

Sodium citrate is often used as an acidity regulator, emulsifier, and preservative. It helps to prevent spoilage and maintain a consistent texture in foods. It is commonly found in jams, jellies, ice cream, and processed cheeses.

Health notes

In the U.S., sodium citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is used in food at low levels and is not associated with significant health concerns. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium citrate and found it to be safe for consumption. Evidence does not suggest adverse effects from typical dietary intake.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.