E1505: Triethyl Citrate
Main role: carrying flavors
Also listed as: ethyl citrate, TEC
What is E1505 (Triethyl Citrate)?
Triethyl citrate is an ester of citric acid and ethanol used as an ingredient carrier. It helps incorporate certain substances into a formulation without serving as the food's main acid or sweetener.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is carrying flavors. A carrier helps incorporate another ingredient, while a processing ingredient may support a manufacturing step or coating. The final declaration and exposure depend on the application and the labeling rules in the relevant market.
Food and formulation examples
- Flavor preparations
- Specified ingredient carriers
- Food additive blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E1505, E 1505, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include ethyl citrate, TEC. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
The citric-acid relationship does not make triethyl citrate identical to citric acid E330. A carrier's role is different from adjusting the food's sourness.
Is E1505 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E1505 as Triethyl citrate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.