Preservative Potassium Citrate

Potassium citrate is the potassium salt of citric acid. It is a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and has a strong, tart taste. It can be produced by neutralizing citric acid with a potassium source, such as potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate.

Potassium citrate is used as a food additive to regulate acidity and as a preservative. It helps maintain a stable pH in foods and beverages, which can prevent spoilage and improve flavor. It is commonly found in soft drinks, dairy products, jams, and jellies.

Potassium citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of potassium, an essential mineral. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated potassium citrate and found it to be safe for consumption. It is sometimes used to help prevent kidney stones, but this is a medical use and not related to its function as a food additive.