Eat or Avoid
E331(ii)

Disodium Citrate

Also known as: Disodium Hydrogen Citrate

Acidity RegulatorsBuffering AgentsEmulsifiers

Safety rating

Generally Safe

Eat Away!Generally SafeUse SparinglyAvoid

Purpose and Function

Disodium citrate is one of the sodium salts of citric acid, an intermediate form between monosodium and trisodium citrate, used to regulate acidity, buffer pH, and emulsify oil-water mixtures.

Commonly found in

  • Dairy products and soft drinks
  • Sauces and dressings

Key functions

  • Regulates and buffers pH
  • Emulsifies oil-and-water mixtures

Potential Risks and Side Effects

  1. 01Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and EFSA
  2. 02Contributes to overall sodium content — relevant for those managing hypertension or cardiovascular risk
  3. 03Rare gastrointestinal discomfort at high intake
  4. 04Rare allergic reactions to citrates

References

    Related Additives