Sodium citrate

INS 331(iii)CAS 68-04-2

Listed as an emulsifier, an acidity regulator and a stabiliser by Canada, Codex and the US.

Listed as emulsifiers (CA, US, Codex) · acidity regulators (CA, US, Codex) · stabilisers (CA, US, Codex) · sequestrants (CA, US, Codex) · thickeners (CA, US) · colours (US) · emulsifying salts (Codex) · nutrient supplements (US) · flavouring agents and adjuvants (US) · surface-active agents (US)
Chemical structure of Sodium citrate, from PubChem compound 6224
Structure from PubChem CID 6224 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Sodium citrate, in this form trisodium citrate, is an acidity regulator and emulsifying salt, and the ingredient that makes processed cheese melt smoothly rather than splitting.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Sodium citrate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandPermitted, with conditions

57 food categories

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

Show every food category
  • 0 Preparations of food additives — GMP
  • 1.1.1 Liquid milk (including buttermilk) — GMPOnly UHT goats milk.
  • 1.1.2 Liquid milk products and flavoured liquid milk — GMP
  • 1.2.2 Fermented milk products and rennetted milk products — GMP
  • 1.3 Condensed milk and evaporated milk — GMP
  • 1.4.1 Cream, reduced cream and light cream — GMPOnly UHT creams and creams receiving equivalent or greater heat treatments.
  • 1.4.2 Cream products (flavoured, whipped, thickened, sour cream etc) — GMP
  • 1.5 Dried milk, milk powder, cream powder — GMP
  • 1.6 Cheese and cheese products — GMP
  • 10.2 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.3 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 10.4 Dried or heat coagulated egg products — GMP
  • 11.1.1 Rainbow sugar — GMP
  • 11.3.1 Dried honey — GMP
  • 11.4 Tabletop sweeteners — GMP
  • 12.1.2 Reduced sodium salt mixture — GMP
  • 12.1.3 Salt substitute — GMP
  • 12.5 Yeast and yeast products — GMP
  • 12.6 Vegetable protein products — GMP
  • 13.1 Infant formula products — GMPApplies in Australia; New Zealand has not adopted Standard 2.9.1 (infant formula products) and applies its own infant formula standard.
  • 13.2 Foods for infants — GMP
  • 13.3 Formulated meal replacements and formulated supplementary foods — GMP
  • 13.4 Formulated supplementary sports foods — GMP
  • 13.5 Food for special medical purposes — GMP
  • 14.1.1.2 Carbonated, mineralised and soda waters — GMP
  • 14.1.2.1 Fruit and vegetable juices — GMPFor juice separated by other than mechanical means only.
  • 14.1.2.2 Fruit and vegetable juice products — GMP
  • 14.1.3 Water based flavoured drinks — GMP
  • 14.1.4 Formulated Beverages — GMP
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions and similar products — GMP
  • 14.2.3 Wine based drinks and reduced alcohol wines — GMP
  • 14.2.4.1 Fruit wine products and vegetable wine products — GMP
  • 14.2.5 Spirits and liqueurs — GMP
  • 14.3 Alcoholic beverages not included in item 14.2 — GMP
  • 2.1 Edible oils essentially free of water — GMP
  • 2.2.1.2 Butter products — GMP
  • 2.2.1.3 Margarine and similar products — GMP
  • 2.2.2 Oil emulsions (<80% oil) — GMP
  • 20 Foods not included in items 0 to 14 — GMP
  • 3 Ice cream and edible ices — GMP
  • 4.1.3 Fruits and vegetables that are peeled, cut, or both peeled and cut — GMP
  • 4.3 Processed fruits and vegetables — GMP
  • 5.1 Chocolate and cocoa products — GMP
  • 5.2 Sugar confectionery — GMP
  • 5.4 Icings and frostings — GMP
  • 6.3 Processed cereal and meal products — GMP
  • 6.4 Flour products (including noodles and pasta) — GMP
  • 7 Breads and bakery products — GMP
  • 8.2 Processed meat, poultry and game products in whole cuts or pieces — GMP
  • 8.3 Processed comminuted meat, poultry and game products, other than products listed in item 8.3.2 — GMP
  • 8.3.2 Sausage and sausage meat containing raw, unprocessed meat — GMP
  • 8.4 Edible casings — GMP
  • 8.5 Animal protein products — GMP
  • 9.1.2 Uncooked crustacea — GMP
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.3 Semi preserved fish and fish products — GMP
  • 9.4 Fully preserved fish including canned fish products — GMP
Food Standards Code, Schedule 15, S15—5and 56 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

19 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Cream cheese spread; Cream cheese spread with (naming the added ingredients); Processed (naming the variety) cheese; Processed cheese food; Processed cheese food with (naming the added ingredients); Processed cheese spread; Processed cheese spread with (naming the added ingredients); Processed (naming the variety) cheese with (naming the added ingredients). Purpose: Emulsifying, stabilizing or thickening agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 4.0%. If used in any combination with other citrate salts, sodium gluconate, tartrate salts or phosphate salts, the total combined amount not to exceed 4.0%, calculated as anhydrous salts, provided that the total amount of phosphate salts does not exceed 3.5%, calculated as anhydrous salts. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0048. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(a)
  • In: Evaporated milk; Evaporated partly skimmed milk; Evaporated skim milk. Purpose: Stabilizing agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 1,000 ppm. If used in combination with potassium phosphate, dibasic or sodium phosphate, dibasic, or both, the total combined amount not to exceed 1,000 ppm, provided that the total amount of phosphate salts does not exceed 1,000 ppm, calculated as sodium phosphate, dibasic. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0145. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(b)
  • In: (Naming the flavour) flavour. Purpose: Emulsifying agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: M-FAA-24-14. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(b.1)
  • In: Ice cream mix. Purpose: Stabilizing agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 5,000 ppm of the ice cream. If used in any combination with other stabilizing agents or microcrystalline cellulose in accordance with paragraph M.8(b) of the List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use, the total combined amount not to exceed 5,000 ppm of the ice cream. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(c)
  • In: Ice milk mix. Purpose: Stabilizing agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 5,000 ppm of the ice milk. If used in any combination with other stabilizing agents, the total combined amount not to exceed 5,000 ppm of the ice milk. This total combined amount does not include propylene glycol mono fatty acid esters that may be added up to their maximum level of use set out in this list. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(d)
  • In: Sherbet. Purpose: Stabilizing agent. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 7,500 ppm. If used in any combination with other stabilizing agents, the total combined amount not to exceed 7,500 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Emulsifying, Gelling, Stabilizing or Thickening Agents (List 4), item S.5(e)
  • In: Beef blood. Purpose: Anticoagulant. Limit: 5,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.10(a)
  • In: Blend of prepared fish and prepared meat as set out in paragraph 18.1.3(g) of Volume 18 of the Food Compositional Standards Document. Purpose: To modify texture. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.10(b)
  • In: Sour cream. Purpose: Flavour precursor. Limit: 1,000 ppm. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Food Additives with Other Purposes of Use (List 8), item S.10(c)
  • In: Apple and (naming the fruit or fruits) jam; Cottage cheese; Cream; Creamed cottage cheese; Fig marmalade; Fig marmalade with pectin; Ice cream mix; Ice milk mix; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jam; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jam with pectin; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jelly; (Naming the fruit or fruits) jelly with pectin; (Naming the citrus fruit or fruits) marmalade; (Naming the citrus fruit or fruits) marmalade with pectin; Pineapple marmalade; Pineapple marmalade with pectin; Rhubarb and (naming the fruit or fruits) jam; Sherbet. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(a)
  • In: Calorie-reduced margarine; Margarine. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(b)
  • In: Frozen crustaceans; Frozen fish; Frozen fish fillets; Frozen frogs; Frozen marine mammals; Frozen minced fish; Frozen molluscs; Glaze for frozen fish; Other frozen marine invertebrates; Prepared fish or prepared meat (as defined in section B.21.002 of the Food and Drug Regulations); Preserved fish or preserved meat (as defined in section B.21.002 of the Food and Drug Regulations). Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(c)
  • In: Human milk fortifier. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0164. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(d)
  • In: Infant formula. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(e)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Acidity regulator. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Acidity Regulators and Acid-Reacting Materials (List 10), item S.9(f)
  • In: Frozen crustaceans; Frozen fish; Frozen fish fillets; Frozen frogs; Frozen marine mammals; Frozen minced fish; Frozen molluscs; Glaze for frozen fish; Prepared fish or prepared meat (as defined in section B.21.002 of the Food and Drug Regulations); Preserved fish or preserved meat (as defined in section B.21.002 of the Food and Drug Regulations); Other frozen marine invertebrates. Purpose: Sequestering agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sequestering Agents (List 12), item S.2(a)
  • In: Ice cream mix; Ice milk mix; Sherbet. Purpose: Sequestering agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sequestering Agents (List 12), item S.2(b)
  • In: Pumping pickle, cover pickle or dry cure used in the curing of preserved meat or preserved meat by-product. Purpose: Sequestering agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. Amendment notices: NOM/ADM-0122. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sequestering Agents (List 12), item S.2(c)
  • In: Unstandardized foods. Purpose: Sequestering agent. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Sequestering Agents (List 12), item S.2(d)
Health Canadaand 18 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

92 food categories

highest permitted level 4,000 mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.1 unflavoured pasteurised and sterilised (including UHT) milk — 4,000 mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 4000 mg/l. only UHT goat milk.
  • 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* — 2,000 mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000 mg/l.
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.5 dehydrated milk as defined by directive 2001/114/ec — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Authorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 11.4.1 table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.1 foods for infants and young childrenAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. For uses in nutrient preparations under the condition that the maximum level in foods mentioned in Part E, points 01.10 and 13.1, of Annex II is not exceeded and the conditions of use specified therein are respected.
  • 13.1.1 infant formulae as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — 2,000 mg/kgAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000 mg/kg. Note 43: E 331 and E 332 are authorised individually or in combination and in conformity with the the limits set in Directives 2006/141/EC, 2006/125/EC, 1999/21/EC.
  • 13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — 2,000 mg/kgAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000 mg/kg. Note 43: E 331 and E 332 are authorised individually or in combination and in conformity with the the limits set in Directives 2006/141/EC, 2006/125/EC, 1999/21/EC.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only processed cereal based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wineAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Authorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Authorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Authorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. except virgin oils and olive oils.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.1.2 peeled cut and shredded fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only prepacked refrigerated unprocessed fruit and vegetables ready for consumption and prepacked unprocessed and peeled potatoes.
  • 4.1.3 frozen fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.3 canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.4.2 compote excluding products covered by category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only gehakt, prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.1.1 Unprocessed fish — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 9.1.2 Unprocessed molluscs and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roeAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 91 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

88 food categories

highest permitted level 4,000 mg/kg or mg/l

Show every food category
  • 1.1 Unflavoured pasteurised and sterilised (including UHT) milk — 4,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 4000. only UHT goat milk.
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.5 Dehydrated milk as defined by Directive 2001/114/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.9 Edible caseinates — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.1 Table-top sweeteners in liquid form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.2 Table-top sweeteners in powder form — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 11.4.3 Table-top sweeteners in tablets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.1.1 Infant formulae as defined by Commission Directive 2006/141/EC — 2,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000. Note (43): E 331 and E 332 are authorised individually or in combination and in conformity with the limits set in Directives 2006/141/EC, 2006/125/EC, 1999/21/EC.
  • 13.1.2 Follow-on formulae as defined by Directive 2006/141/EC — 2,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000. Note (43): E 331 and E 332 are authorised individually or in combination and in conformity with the limits set in Directives 2006/141/EC, 2006/125/EC, 1999/21/EC.
  • 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children as defined by Commission Directive 2006/125/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only processed cereal-based foods and baby foods, only for pH adjustment.
  • 13.1.4 Other foods for young children — 2,000 mg/kg or mg/lAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. ML = 2000. Note (43): E 331 and E 332 are authorised individually or in combination and in conformity with the limits set in Directives 2006/141/EC, 2006/125/EC and 1999/21/EC.
  • 13.1.5.1 Dietary foods for infants for special medical purposes and special formulae for infants — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.1 Fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milkfat) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. except virgin oils and olive oils.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.1.2 Peeled, cut and shredded fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only prepacked refrigerated unprocessed fruit and vegetables ready for consumption and prepacked unprocessed and peeled potatoes.
  • 4.1.3 Frozen fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.3 Canned or bottled fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.2 Compote, excluding products covered by category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.3 Other similar fruit or vegetable spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.2 Meat preparations as defined by Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis. only gehakt, prepacked preparations of fresh minced meat and meat preparations to which other ingredients than additives or salt have been added.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.1.1 Unprocessed fish — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 9.1.2 Unprocessed molluscs and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 331, Sodium citrates. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 87 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 121, クエン酸三ナトリウム（別名クエン酸ナトリウム） (“Trisodium Citrate (Sodium Citrate)” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 121, クエン酸三ナトリウム（別名クエン酸ナトリウム） (“Trisodium Citrate (Sodium Citrate)” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), 구연산삼나트륨 (“Trisodium Citrate”, the English the Code prints beside it); the Code marks it as also usable as a nutrient fortifier; 3. 영양강화제 (nutrient fortifiers), 구연산삼나트륨; nutrient: 나트륨 (Na); the Code marks it as also usable as a general food additive. Main use (주용도) of 구연산삼나트륨: 산도조절제. Standard for use (사용기준) of 구연산삼나트륨: (1) [to be used under the general standard for use in II. 2. 1), the minimum amount that achieves the technical effect, with no limit set for this additive in particular] “II. 2. 1)의 규정에 따라 사용하여야 한다.” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationPermitted21 CFR 184.1751retrieved 2026-10-17
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

28 food categories

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.1.1 Fluid Milk (plain) — GMP
    • Note 227 For use in sterilized and UHT treated milks only.
    • Note 438 For use as emulsifier or stabilizer only.
    • Note 504 Except for use in sterilized and UHT milk from bovine species at 1000 mg/kg expressed as citric acid, to compensate for low raw milk intrinsic citrate content, as a result of specific environmental conditions only.
  • 01.1.2 Other Fluid Milk (plain) — GMP
    • Note 410 Excluding lactose reduced milks.
  • 01.1.3 Fluid Buttermilk (plain) — GMP
    • Note 261 For use in heat-treated buttermilk only.
  • 01.2.1.1 Fermented milks (plain), not heat-treated after fermentation — GMP
    • Note 234 For use as a stabilizer or thickener only.
    • Note 235 For use in reconstituted and recombined products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) only.
    • Note 634 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS243-2003) only.
  • 01.2.1.2 Fermented milks (plain), heat-treated after fermentation — GMP
    • Note 632 For use in plain fermented milks and drinks based on fermented milks that are heat treated after fermentation conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003) only, as an acidity regulator or stabilizer.
  • 01.2.2 Renneted milk (plain) — GMP
  • 01.4.1 Pasteurized cream (plain) — GMP
    • Note XS288 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cream and Prepared Creams (CXS 288-1976)
  • 01.4.2 Sterilized and UHT creams, whipping and whipped creams, and reduced fat creams (plain) — GMP
  • 01.8.2 Dried whey and whey products, excluding whey cheeses — GMP
    • Note XS331 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dairy Permeate Powders (CXS 331-2017).
  • 02.1.1 Butter oil, anhydrous milkfat, ghee — GMP
    • Note 171 Excluding anhydrous milkfat.
  • 02.1.2 Vegetable oils and fats — GMP
    • Note 511 Excluding virgin and cold pressed oils in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999).
    • Note XS33 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Olive Oils and Olive Pomace Oils (CODEX STAN 33-1981).
    • Note XS325R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Unrefined Shea Butter (CXS 325R-2017).
  • 02.1.3 Lard, tallow, fish oil, and other animal fats — GMP
    • Note 522 For use in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and Named Animal Fats (CXS 211-1999).
    • Note XS329 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fish Oils (CXS 329-2017).
  • 04.2.1.1 Untreated fresh vegetables, (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes (including soybeans), and aloe vera), seaweeds and nuts and seeds — GMP
    • Note 262 For use in edible fungi and fungus products only.
    • Note XS40R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Chanterelles (CXS 40R-2017).
    • Note XS304R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Culantro Coyote (CXS 304R-2011).
    • Note XS324R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Yacon (CXS 324R-2017).
    • Note XS335R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Fresh leaves of Gnetum spp. (CXS 335R-2020).
    • Note XS336R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for kava products for use as a beverage when mixed with water (North America and South West Pacific) (CXS 336R-2020).
  • 04.2.2.1 Frozen vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), seaweeds and nuts and seeds — GMP
    • Note 29 For use in non-standardized food.
    • Note 93 For use in French fried potatoes conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Vegetables (CXS 320-2015) as a sequestrant.
  • 04.2.2.7 Fermented vegetable (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera) and seaweed products, excluding fermented soybean products of food categories 06.8.6, 06.8.7, 12.9.1, — GMP
    • Note XS294 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gochujang (CXS 294-2009).
  • 06.2.1 Flours — GMP
    • Note 25 For use at GMP in full fat soy flour only.
    • Note XS152 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Wheat Flour (CXS 152-1985).
    • Note XS301R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Edible Sago Flour (Asia) (CXS 301R-2011).
  • 08.1.1 Fresh meat, poultry and game, whole pieces or cuts — GMP
    • Note 16 For use in glaze, coatings or decorations for fruit, vegetables, meat or fish only.
    • Note 326 For use in fresh meat, poultry and game products only.
  • 08.1.2 Fresh meat, poultry and game, comminuted — GMP
    • Note 281 For use in fresh minced meat which contains other ingredients apart from comminuted meat only.
  • 09.2 Processed fish and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — GMP
    • Note 253 For non-standardized foods and for use in minced fish flesh only in products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Sticks (Fish Fingers), Fish Portions and Fish Fillets - Breaded or in Batter (CODEX STAN 166-1989).
    • Note 391 For non-standardized food and for minced fish flesh only in products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Blocks of Fish Fillets, Minced Fish Flesh and Mixtures of Fillets and Minced Fish Flesh (CODEX STAN 165-1989).
    • Note XS36 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Finfish, Uneviscerated and Eviscerated (CODEX STAN 36-1981).
    • Note XS92 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Shrimps and Prawns (CODEX STAN 92-1981).
    • Note XS95 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Lobsters (CODEX STAN 95-1981).
    • Note XS167 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Fish and Dried Salted Fish of the Gadidae Family of Fishes (CODEX STAN 167-1989).
    • Note XS189 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Shark Fins (CODEX STAN 189-1993).
    • Note XS190 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Fillets (CODEX STAN 190-1995).
    • Note XS191 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Raw Squid (CODEX STAN 191-1995).
    • Note XS222 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Crackers from Marine and Freshwater Fish, Crustaceans and Molluscan Shellfish (CODEX STAN 222-2001).
    • Note XS236 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Boiled Dried Salted Anchovies (CODEX STAN 236-2003).
    • Note XS244 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Salted Atlantic Herring and Salted Sprat (CODEX STAN 244-2004).
    • Note XS292 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Live and Raw Bivalve Molluscs (CODEX STAN 292-2008).
    • Note XS311 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Smoked Fish, Smoked-flavoured Fish and Smoke-dried Fish (CODEX STAN 311-2013).
    • Note XS312 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Live Abalone and for Raw Fresh Chilled or Frozen Abalone for Direct Consumption or for Further Processing (CODEX STAN 312-2013).
    • Note XS315 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fresh and Quick Frozen Raw Scallop Products (CODEX STAN 315-2014).
  • 10.2.1 Liquid egg products — GMP
  • 10.2.2 Frozen egg products — GMP
  • 11.4 Other sugars and syrups (e.g. xylose, maple syrup, sugar toppings) — GMP
    • Note 258 Excluding maple syrup.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — GMP
  • 13.1.1 Infant formulae — GMP
    • Note 55 Within the limits for sodium, calcium, and potassium specified in the Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants (CXS 72-1981): singly or in combination with other sodium, calcium, and/or potassium salts.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.2 Follow-up formulae — GMP
    • Note 316 For use in follow-up formula for older infants: within the limit for sodium specified in the standard for Follow-up Formula for older infants and product for young children (CXS 156-1987); singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.3 Formulae for special medical purposes for infants — GMP
    • Note 55 Within the limits for sodium, calcium, and potassium specified in the Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants (CXS 72-1981): singly or in combination with other sodium, calcium, and/or potassium salts.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.2 Complementary foods for infants and young children — 5,000 mg/kg
    • Note 238 Except for use in products corresponding to the Standard for Processed Cereal-Based Foods for Infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) at GMP.
    • Note 319 Within the limit for sodium listed in the Codex Standard for Canned Baby Food (CODEX STAN 73-1981) for foods corresponding to that standard : singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
    • Note 320 Within the limit for sodium listed in the Codex Standard for Processed Cereal-based Foods for Infants and Young Children (CODEX STAN 74-1981) for foods corresponding to that standard : singly or in combination with other sodium containing additives.
  • 14.1.5 Coffee, coffee substitutes, tea, herbal infusions, and other hot cereal and grain beverages, excluding cocoa — GMP
    • Note 160 For use in ready-to-drink products and pre-mixes for ready-to-drink products only.
CXS 192-1995 Table Three, INS 331(iii)and 28 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Australia and New Zealand—57 GMP
Canada1,000 mg/kg – 5,000 mg/kg2 numeric limit, 12 GMP, 5 no quantity stated
European Union2,000 mg/kg – 4,000 mg/kg4 numeric limit, 46 several limits, 19 quantum satis, 23 no quantity stated
Great Britain2,000 mg/kg – 4,000 mg/kg4 numeric limit, 84 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
United States—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius5,000 mg/kg1 numeric limit, 28 GMP

What it is made from

Made by neutralising fermentation-derived citric acid with sodium hydroxide or carbonate.

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian

Compare other additives on the dietary indexes.

CAS registry number
68-04-2
InChIKey
HRXKRNGNAMMEHJ-UHFFFAOYSA-K
PubChem
CID 6224

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 99 %no less than 99 %
Loss on drying—no more than 1 %
Leadno more than 2 mg/kgno more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 1 mg/kg—
Mercuryno more than 1 mg/kg—

The two documents state the same figures for every parameter compared here.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 331(iii) Trisodium citrate

Synonyms: Tribasic sodium citrate

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
200-675-3
Chemical name
Trisodium citrate; Trisodium salt of 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid; Trisodium salt of citric acid, in anhydrous, dihydrate or pentahydrate form
Chemical formula
Anhydrous: C₆H₅O₇Na₃ Hydrated: C₆H₅O₇Na₃·nH₂O (n = 2 or 5)
Molecular weight
258,07 (anhydrous) 294,10 (hydrated n = 2) 348,16 (hydrated n = 5)
Assay
Not less than 99 % on the anhydrous basis
Description
Crystalline white powder or colourless crystals

Identification

Test for citrate
Passes test
Test for sodium
Passes test
pH
Between 7,5 and 9,0 (5 % aqueous solution)

Purity criteria

Loss of drying
Anhydrous: not more than 1,0 % (180 °C, 18 hours) Dihydrate: 10,0 to 13,0 % (180 °C, 18 hours) Pentahydrate: not more than 30,3 % (180 °C, 4 hours)
Oxalates
Not more than 100 mg/kg expressed as oxalic acid, after drying
Arsenic
Not more than 1 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 331(iii)

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 331(iii) Trisodium Citrate

Synonyms: Sodium citrate; INS No. 331(iii)

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 19th JECFA (1975), published in NMRS 55B (1976) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 59th JECFA (2002). An ADI not limited' was established at the 17th JECFA (1973)
Chemical names
Trisodium citrate, trisodium salt of 2-hydroxy-1,2,3- propanetricarboxylic acid, trisodium salt of ß-hydroxy-tricarballylic acid
C.A.S. number
68-04-2
Chemical formula
Anhydrous: C 6 H 5 Na 3 O 7 Hydrated: C 6 H 5 Na 3 O 7 · xH 2 O
Formula weight
258.07 (anhydrous)
Assay
Not less than 99.0% calculated on the dried basis
DESCRIPTION
Colourless, odourless crystals, or white, crystalline powder; hydrated forms available include the dihydrate and the pentahemihydrate
FUNCTIONAL USES
Buffer, sequestrant, emulsion stabilizer
METHOD OF ASSAY
Transfer about 350 mg of the sample, accurately weighed, to a 250-ml beaker. Add 100 ml of glacial acetic acid, stir until completely dissolved, and titrate with 0.1 N perchloric acid, using crystal violet TS as indicator. Perform a blank determination and make any necessary correction. Each ml of 0.1 N perchloric acid is equivalent to 8.602 mg of C 6 H 5 Na 3 O 7 .

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Freely soluble in water, insoluble in ethanol
Test for citrate
To 5 ml of a 1 in 10 solution of the sample add 1 ml of calcium chloride TS and 3 drops of bromothymol blue TS, and slightly acidify with dilute hydrochloric acid TS. Add sodium hydroxide TS until the colour changes to a clear blue, then boil the solution for 3 min, agitating gently during the heating period. A white, crystalline precipitate appears which is insoluble in sodium hydroxide TS but dissolves in acetic acid TS. To 10 ml of a 1 in 10 solution of the sample add 1 ml of mercuric sulfate TS. Heat the mixture to boiling and add a few drops of potassium permanganate TS. A white precipitate is formed.
Test for sodium
To 5 ml of a 1 in 20 solution of the sample, acidified with acetic acid TS add 1 ml of uranyl zinc acetate TS. A yellow crystalline precipitate is formed within a few min.

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4)
Anhydrous: not more than 1% (180 o to constant weight) Dihydrate: not more than 13% (180 o to constant weight) Pentahemihydrate: not more than 30% (180 o to constant weight)
Alkalinity
A 1 in 20 solution of the sample is alkaline to litmus. After the addition of 0.2 ml of 0.1 N sulfuric acid and 1 drop of phenolphthalein TS to 10 ml of the solution no pink colour is produced.
Oxalate
To 10 ml of a 1 in 10 solution of the sample add 5 drops of dilute acetic acid TS and 2 ml of calcium chloride TS. No turbidity develops within 1 h.
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 2 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Every name it appears under

103 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E331

INS number

  • 331(iii)

CAS registry number

  • 68-04-2
  • 8055-55-8
  • 994-36-5

As it appears in regulation

  • Sodium citrate
  • Sodium citrates

Other names

  • 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, trisodium salt
  • 1Q73Q2JULR
  • Albright's Solution
  • anhydrous sodium citrate
  • Anhydrous trisodium citrate
  • Bicitra
  • Canesten oasis
  • CCRIS 3293
  • Citnatin
  • Citrate Concentrated Solution
  • Citreme
  • Citric acid trisodium
  • Citric acid trisodium salt dihydrate
  • Citric acid, monosodium salt
  • CITRIC ACID, SODIUM SALT
  • Citric acid, trisodium salt
  • citric acid/potassium-sodium citrate
  • Citrofluyl
  • Citrosidine
  • Citrosodina
  • Citrosodine
  • Citrosodna
  • Cymalon
  • Cystemme
  • Cystocalm
  • Cystoleve
  • E-331(III)
  • FEMA No. 3026
  • FEMA NO. 3026, ANHYDROUS-
  • HSDB 5201
  • INS NO.331(III)
  • INS-331(III)
  • Isolyte E
  • Micolette
  • Micralax
  • Modified Shohl's Solution
  • Monosodium dihydrogen citrate
  • Natrii citras
  • Natrocitral
  • Relaxit
  • RS7A450LGA
  • Sod cit
  • sodium (iii) citrate
  • Sodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
  • Sodium citrate
  • Sodium citrate (Na3C6H5O7)
  • Sodium citrate (USP)
  • sodium citrate salt
  • sodium citrate, anhydrous
  • SODIUM CITRATE, UNSPECIFIED
  • Tongue Gel Set
  • tri-sodium citrate
  • Trisodium 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylate
  • trisodium 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
  • TRISODIUM CITRATE
  • Trisodium citrate, anhydrous
  • trisodium-citrate

Hazard reference values

Values set by assessing bodies. A body that has not set a value is not listed here.
TypeValuePopulationAssessed byOpinion
ADInot limited—JECFA1973

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is INS 331(iii)?
INS 331(iii) is Sodium citrate. Sodium citrate, in this form trisodium citrate, is an acidity regulator and emulsifying salt, and the ingredient that makes processed cheese melt smoothly rather than splitting.
What is Sodium citrate used for in food?
It is listed as an emulsifier, an acidity regulator and a stabiliser — the role Canada, Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Sodium citrate permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, the US and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.
Is Sodium citrate vegan?
Yes. Sodium citrate is not derived from animals, and is suitable for vegetarians. This page says what it is made from and how.

Sources for this page

  • anz retrieved 2026-10-17
  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • ecfr retrieved 2026-10-17
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

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