Sodium Citrates – E331

Toxicity: Low

What is Sodium Citrates E331

The additive E331, also known as trisodium citrate, is a chemical compound used as an additive in the food industry. It comes in the form of a white powder and is soluble in water. E331 is mainly used as an acidity regulator and metal sequestration agent in foods and beverages. Its main function is to adjust and stabilize the pH of products, improving their flavor and prolonging their shelf life. This additive is found in a wide variety of products, such as carbonated drinks, dairy products, desserts, sweets, sauces, sausages and baked goods. Its use is permitted by health authorities in safe doses for human consumption. Regarding the safety of E331, it is considered a low health risk additive. No significant adverse effects have been reported associated with its consumption in the usual doses used in foods and beverages. However, some people may be sensitive to this additive, especially those with a dairy allergy or intolerance, as E331 may be derived from dairy sources. In conclusion, E331 or trisodium citrate is a food additive used to adjust the pH and stabilize food products. Its use is widespread and considered safe in adequate doses. As always, it is recommended to read product labels and be aware of your own possible food sensitivities or allergies before consuming any food that contains this additive.

Adverse effects of Sodium Citrates E331

The additive E331, better known as trisodium citrate, is widely used in the food industry as a sequestering agent, acidity regulator and stabilizer. Although it is considered safe for consumption in permitted quantities, some individuals may experience adverse effects. Here I mention some of them

Allergies Some people may be allergic to trisodium citrate, which can cause allergic reactions such as hives, itching, redness of the skin, difficulty breathing and facial edema.

Gastrointestinal problems Excessive consumption of trisodium citrate can cause laxative effects and diarrhea in some people. In addition, it can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and abdominal bloating.

Drug Interaction Trisodium citrate may interact with certain medications, such as calcium channel blockers used to treat high blood pressure. This interaction can increase the levels of these medications in the body and cause undesirable side effects.

Kidney problems In very rare cases, excessive consumption of trisodium citrate can lead to the formation of kidney stones in people with a history of kidney problems. It is important to note that these adverse effects are rare and generally occur only in sensitive people or when excessive additives are consumed. In normal amounts, trisodium citrate is considered safe for most people. However, if you experience any discomfort after consuming foods containing this additive, it is advisable to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.

How do you get Sodium Citrates or E331?

The additive E331, also known as trisodium citrate, is obtained through a chemical process that uses citric acid and sodium carbonate. The step-by-step process is detailed below

Obtaining citric acid Citric acid is found in various citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes. However, in large-scale production, it is usually obtained from cultures of fungi of the genus Aspergillus niger, which can ferment carbon sources such as sugar cane molasses or fermented starch. These fungi produce citric acid as a byproduct during fermentation.

Purification of citric acid The citric acid obtained in the previous step is purified through filtration and precipitation processes. This helps eliminate impurities and obtain high purity citric acid.

Neutralization of citric acid Purified citric acid is mixed with sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) in a specific proportion. The chemical reaction between citric acid and sodium carbonate generates trisodium citrate (E331) and water. This neutralization allows the additive E331 to be obtained.

Drying and granulation The trisodium citrate solution obtained is dried to eliminate excess water. Once it has lost most of its water content, it is processed into the form of granules or powder, depending on the manufacturer’s needs. Importantly, although natural forms of citric acid can be found in some fruits and vegetables, the E331 additive is produced through chemical processes in the food industry to ensure its purity and standardization.

Food use of Sodium Citrates E331

The additive E331, also known as trisodium citrate, is commonly used as a food additive for various purposes. Below are some of the most common uses of E331

PH Stabilizer Trisodium citrate is used as an acidity or alkalinity regulator in foods and beverages. It helps maintain a stable pH, avoiding extreme variations that could affect the quality and shelf life of the products.

Preservative Due to its ability to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, E331 is used as a preservative in foods and beverages. It helps prolong the shelf life of products and prevent the proliferation of bacteria, molds and yeasts.

Anticoagulant agent Trisodium citrate acts as an anticoagulant agent in certain foods and drinks, preventing the formation of clots or the separation of unwanted phases.

Improves the texture and stability of foods E331 can improve the texture and stability of some food products, such as dairy products, sauces and baking products.

Flavor Enhancer In certain cases, E331 is used as a flavor enhancer in foods and beverages, enhancing their natural taste and aroma. It is important to highlight that the amount and manner of use of the E331 additive are regulated by the health authorities of each country. In addition, it is advisable to read product labels before consuming them, as they could contain this additive. If you have any concerns regarding its consumption, it is advisable to consult a nutrition specialist or doctor.

Industrial use of Sodium Citrates E331

The additive E331, also known as sodium citrate, is used in the food industry as an acidity regulator, sequestrant agent and stabilizer. Some common industrial uses of this additive are provided below

Carbonated Beverages Sodium citrate is used in the manufacture of carbonated beverages such as soft drinks and energy drinks to regulate acidity and improve flavor .

Dairy products It is used in dairy products such as processed cheeses, yogurts and ice creams as a stabilizer and acidity regulator.

Canned foods The E331 additive is used in canned foods such as preserved fruits, vegetables and sauces to control the pH and prevent the formation of rust inside the cans.

Baked Goods In the baking and pastry industry, sodium citrate is used as a drying agent to improve texture and prevent crystal formation in baked products such as cookies and cakes.

Meat-based foods Used in meat-based foods such as sausages and processed meat products to maintain freshness, extend shelf life and improve texture.

Dresses and sauces It is used in salad dressings, sauces and condiments to regulate acidity and improve the stability of these products. It is important to keep in mind that, although the E331 additive is considered safe for human consumption in permitted quantities, it is advisable to follow the indications and doses established by the corresponding health authorities.

Recommended consumption of Sodium Citrates E331

The additive E331, also known as trisodium citrate, is commonly used as an acidity regulator and sequestrant in the food industry. Although it is considered safe for human consumption, there is a maximum recommended consumption for this additive. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for trisodium citrate. According to EFSA, the ADI for this additive is 0-30 mg/kg body weight per day. It is important to note that this recommendation applies to a combined intake of all foods and drinks containing the additive E33

Therefore, it is necessary to consider the total amount of trisodium citrate consumed throughout the day and ensure do not exceed the established limit. Additionally, it is advisable to follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturers of foods and beverages that contain this additive. These indications are usually on the product labeling and can help ensure proper and safe consumption. If you have any concerns about the consumption of food additives in general or trisodium citrate in particular, we recommend that you consult a healthcare professional or nutrition specialist, who will be able to provide you with more specific and personalized information based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Additive E331, also known as trisodium citrate, is commonly used as an acidifying agent, stabilizer and preservative in the food industry. This additive has several beneficial properties, which are detailed below

Acidity regulator E331 acts as an acidity regulator in foods, helping to maintain a proper pH balance. This is especially important in products such as carbonated drinks, sweets and baked goods, where a specific level of acidity is required to improve flavor and texture.

Improves the shelf life of foods Trisodium citrate can act as a preservative in foods and beverages, helping to prevent the growth of microorganisms and slowing decomposition. This helps extend the shelf life of products and reduce food waste.

Stabilizer E331 also has stabilizing properties, meaning it can help maintain the consistency and structure of foods. In dairy products, for example, it can help prevent separation and clumping, improving product quality and stability.

Food Safety Trisodium citrate has been evaluated by food safety regulatory agencies around the world and is considered safe for consumption in permitted quantities. It has been shown to have no short or long term adverse health effects.

Versatility E331 is a versatile additive that is used in a wide range of food products, including processed foods, beverages, baked goods, dairy and confectionery. Its versatility and beneficial properties make it a widely used additive in the food industry.