Ingredient · E333

Tri-calcium Citrate

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add tricalcium citrate to foods primarily as an acidity regulator and a firming …

What is Tri-calcium Citrate?

Tricalcium citrate is a calcium salt of citric acid. It is produced by reacting citric acid with a calcium source, such as calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide. It appears as a white powder and is often used as a food additive.

Is Tri-calcium Citrate vegan?

Tri-calcium Citrate is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Tri-calcium Citrate gluten-free?

It is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA, nor does it contain gluten.

Is Tri-calcium Citrate a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Tri-calcium Citrate used for?

Manufacturers add tricalcium citrate to foods primarily as an acidity regulator and a firming agent.

Is Tri-calcium Citrate safe?

In the United States, tricalcium citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add tricalcium citrate to foods primarily as an acidity regulator and a firming agent. It helps control the pH of foods and can improve the texture of fruits and vegetables. It is commonly found in powdered drinks, fruit juices, and nectars.

Health notes

In the United States, tricalcium citrate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It serves as a source of calcium, an essential nutrient. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated tricalcium citrate and found it acceptable for use as a food additive.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA, nor does it contain gluten.

Foods that contain Tri-calcium Citrate

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Last updated: October 5, 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.